It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jane Ann (Janie) Barnette, who departed from this world on April 9, 2026, following an unexpected medical emergency. Janie was born on June 26, 1951, in Wichita, Kansas, to the late Troy Cooper and Oneta Worel Cooper-Thomason. Her life, though cut short, was filled with love, learning, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the lives of those around her.
Janie had an exceptional ability to touch the hearts of everyone she met. A graduate of Wolfe City High School in 1969, she shone brightly as a gifted band member and drum majorette, as well as earning the title of Miss WCHS. Her passion for education led her to East Texas State University, where she graduated in 1973 with a degree in education, specializing in Special Education and Elementary Education. She was a proud member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority and kept in touch with many of her sisters throughout the years.
Her career as an educator spanned over 40 remarkable years, predominantly serving at Birdville ISD. Janie’s dedication to her students and colleagues was unparalleled, and her efforts were recognized when she was named Teacher of the Year during the 2006-2007 school year. Her influence extended beyond her classroom as she provided mentorship to countless teachers and student teachers, nurturing the next generation of educators with her wisdom and compassion.
In 1974, Janie met Gary in Mineral Wells, Texas. Janie was the “girl from down the street” and worked with Gary’s mom at the local elementary school. Gary was newly discharged from the army and his mom thought it would be a good idea if they went out on a date. It was, and they were married July 26, 1975. Janie and Gary went on to have 2 children, Matt and Adrienne who were her pride and joy.
Beyond her professional achievements, Janie was a woman of many talents and interests. She was an extremely talented artist, pouring her heart into her exquisite oil paintings and crafting beautiful wreaths, which she lovingly shared with friends and family. An avid reader, particularly of mystery novels, Janie’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable. Her family was her greatest joy, and she was a devoted wife, mother, and Nana, whose love knew no bounds. Janie also found solace and beauty in her flower garden, where she cultivated stunning roses, each bloom a testament to her nurturing spirit.
Janie was preceded in death by her parents, Troy Cooper and Oneta Worel Cooper-Thomason and her dear nephew, Colin Owens. She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Gary Barnette; son Matthew Barnette (Gabriella); daughter Adrienne Breinholt (Heath); four wonderful grandkids Mason Breinholt, Adam Breinholt, August Barnette, and Thea Barnette; sister Ola Owens (Richard); niece Heather Singleton (Brad); great-nephews Carter Singleton and Zane Singleton; and many, many more dearly loved family members and friends.
A service to celebrate Janie’s life will be held on April 18, 2026, with a visitation from 1-2 pm and a service at 2 pm at Harrell Funeral Home, located at 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, TX.
In this time of sorrow, the family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from friends and loved ones. We find comfort in knowing that Janie’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. As her son Matt put it, “No one will ever be able to replace the light that left the earth last night, but we will carry the torch for her and pass all the things she taught us, and all the love she showed us on to our kids.”
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you donate a backpack or school supplies for needy children. Please bring to the service or shop this Amazon Wish List https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1U78KSFJRUNYS?ref_=wl_share in Memory of Janie Barnette. Donations will be donated to her grandchildren’s schools in her honor.
This obituary was published by Harrell Funeral Home of Austin.
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