Tonya Barnett Obituary

Tonya Kay Barnett

June 26, 1944 -

April 2, 2026

Tonya Barnett, age 81, passed away after a lengthy illness. She fought a good fight, finished her race, and kept the faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Olive Pickering; her son, Johnny Peters; her husband, Don Barnett; as well as two sisters and one brother.

She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Matthews (Eddie); two stepsons, Donnie Barnett and Jeff Barnett; her stepdaughter, Joann Ramsey; her sister, Julia (Pat) Taylor; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved husky companion, Spirit.

Tonya held many jobs throughout her life, including positions with Johnson City Medical and Goodwill. She had a love for cooking and was known for having a house full of family and friends on every holiday. She found joy in helping others and loved her family deeply

A special thank you to the dear friends who stood beside her daughter and offered love and support in her final days: Kathy Drain, Sandra Clawson, Brenda Canter, Dara Miller, and Teresa Key.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 11th at her home.

"Absent from the body, present with the Lord." - 2 Corinthians 5:8