Douglas Dorr Barnette

Douglas Dorr Barnette, 79, of Salisbury, NC, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 6, 2025. Born on March 7, 1946, in Charleston, West Virginia, Doug lived a full and vibrant life marked by resilience, laughter, and love. He graduated from Sissonville High School in 1964 and soon after answered the call to serve his country. Doug was a proud U.S. Army veteran who bravely served in Vietnam with the 121st Assault Helicopter Company. During his time enlisted, Doug was awarded Commendations for exemplary service and loyalty to the mission of his command. After his military service, Doug built a long and dedicated career, working for Union Carbide in Institute, WV, and later retiring from Chemical Specialties in Harrisburg, NC. Known for his tireless work ethic, Doug also knew how to savor life’s joys. He had a sharp wit and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether he was cracking a joke, sharing a cold beer with friends, dancing to live music, or simply enjoying the company of others, Doug made every moment count. Upon retirement, Doug fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling on a Wild West tour with his partner, Debbie. Once achieving that, they set their sights on the South and became snowbirds in Sarasota, FL. He was an avid golfer, a lover of horseshoes and enjoyed regular breakfast meetups with his buddies. In his younger years, Doug was an accomplished clogger with the esteemed Mountain State Stompers and continued with his love of dancing throughout his life. In his later years, Doug enjoyed competing in the Senior Games of Cabarrus County and he never missed an opportunity to talk smack over a game of cards with his grandson. Though his humor lit up any room, Doug carried a deep and abiding grief following the tragic loss of his only son, Joey, in 2009. There wasn’t a day that passed when he didn’t miss him deeply. Today, we find comfort in knowing that father and son are finally reunited—a thought that brings peace amid our sorrow. Doug was preceded in death by his parents: Dorr Donald and Bertha Lea (Thaxton) Barnette; brothers: Orion Huston Barnette, James Sidney “Bo” and wife, Mary Ann (Stewart) Barnette; brother-in-Law, Carl Monroe Rosemond; son, Joseph Douglas Barnette and grandson, Beau Barrett Spencer. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis “Jeane” Rosemond of Saint Albans, WV; brothers: Paul Edward (Marsha) Barnette of Hurricane, WV, Charles Jennings (Becky) Barnette of Saint Albans, WV; daughter, Jaime Spencer (Shawn); and grandson, Cashton Spencer. His partner in life, Debbie Harris; and his bonus family: Sheri Harris, MacKenzie Harris (Christian) and Norah Hufton; as well as a niece, 3 nephews, several cousins, their respective families, and countless friends. Doug will be remembered for his laughter, his outrageous stories, his unwavering loyalty to those he loved, and the way he brightened everyone’s day with his quick wit and zest for life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unforgettable memories. Funeral Service will be 1:00pm Saturday September 13, 2025 at Chapman Funeral Home Hurricane, WV. Burial will follow in Elk Hills Memorial Park in Big Chimney, WV next to his son. Friends may visit the family from 11:00am until 1:00pm prior to the service. A Celebration of Life will be held in NC at a later date.

Douglas Dorr Barnette

March 7, 1946 - September 6, 2025