Reverend S.L. Barnett

Sammie Leon Barnett was born to the union of, William and Cedella Barnett on a cold winter day on February 27, 1932 in Bastrop, TX. He was the second born of four children.

He professed his faith in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt Rose Baptist Church. He eventually joined Macedonia Baptist Church where he served as a dedicated Sunday School Teacher and was later ordained as a minister. He knew and loved the lord and was a faithful servant. Reverend S.L received his formal education from Emile. At a young age, Rev. S.L. was no stranger to hard work, as he started working with his grandfather driving and delivering milk. He later worked in hospitality, in banquets for Driskill, Commodore Perry, Sheraton & the Hilton Austin before retiring in 2000 as a banquet captain. He loved his coworkers, meeting new people and bringing smiles to everyone’s face. He met his loving wife and long-time companion, Lillie Dale Williams in Bastrop and was married for over 60 years. To this union, eight children were born.

There are many words to describe Rev. S.L. The words that quickly come to mind are hard-working, kind-hearted, thoughtful and legendary. He had a multitude of stories, wisdom and guidance. He would share these stories with anyone he came in contact with, especially his children, son in laws and grandchildren. Two stories he was proud and often shared was his involvement in the Watergate Scandal, where he had to testify as a witness and his memories of playing in the negro league. S.L was very gifted in athletics and had the opportunity to play pro baseball at 15 years old, but his mother wouldn’t allow it. S.L also taught his sons the gift of sports, Patrick, Preston & Pernell which they shared a special bond over. His reputation as a pillar in the community will forever precede him; so much so that people will remember Rev. S.L. for years to come.

Rev. S.L was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He showered them with love, was present for every important event, sporting events, graduations and was always there to listen and provide guidance. He had a way of making everyone feel special by greeting them with a “Hey Buddy” raising his hand or giving you a thumbs up. Whether you saw him at his favorite hangout spot C&G or Tracy’s having a big red and grabbing his favorite chew (Day’s Work), driving 10 miles an hour down College street (waving at everyone who passed), shopping at the food pantry, or encountered him out and about he, made you feel like you were his favorite person and left an incredible mark on you. He was just that cool...Our Cool Pop!

Rev. S.L. loved watching his westerns, sports, gardening, and of course his Big Red. He loved his Bible and explaining the various stories to his family and friends. In his early days, he loved golfing and hanging out with his brother Ervin on the porch until the sun went down. Whenever you saw him, he was always sharp boasting and bragging on his cowboy boots. He loved his boots.

On the early morning of September 1, 2023, Reverend S.L. Barnett was called into eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his memories, The love of his life & devoted wife, Lillie D. Barnett, Bastrop, TX, Ten daughters, Della Barnett, Christine Means, Sandra (Ron) Jackson, Pamela Barnett, Austin, TX, Carla Gill, Houston, TX, Patricia (David) Hastings, Phyllis (Terence) White, both of Bastrop, TX, Perthressia (Michael) Monthey, Adel, IA, Shervelia Young-Pendergrass, Pflugerville, TX, Penny (Christopher) Carter, Round Rock, TX; Two sons, Ervin (Angel) Gill, Houston, TX and Pernell (Toni) Barnett, Austin, TX and a granddaughter who was raised like a daughter, Shamiya Falke (Pinkie). One brother-in-law Elroy Williams, Cedar Creek TX and two sister in laws, Sue Ann Hyder, Shiloh TX & Lois Barnett, Dallas, TX. Over fifty beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Along with three special nieces raised like daughters, Hope Barnett, Wendy Gonzales (Patrick), and Christie Barnett. Notable mention are cousins, neighbors and Sammie and Lillies best friends Thomas and Christina Jefferson.

Reverend S.L. Barnett is preceded in death by his Mother and Father, Cedella & William Barnett. Siblings, William Barnett Jr, Geneva Barnett Dimery, Sammie D Barnett & Ervin Barnett and two beloved sons, Preston Barnett & Patrick Barnett. 

Reverend Sammie Leon Barnett will truly be missed for the wisdom provided and loving personality. If you knew Reverend S.L. Barnett, he definitely left an impact on you. He WAS everyone’s buddy and friend.

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