Barnes, Debra Jo
Debra Jo Whitehead Barnes, a woman known for her love and faithfulness, left this world for her heavenly home on February 24, 2026, at the age of 65. Born to Robbie and Evelyn Frazier Whitehead on June 29, 1960, in Waynesboro, Debra grew up to be a woman of spirited grace and unwavering kindness. Her departure in Hohenwald, leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Debra spent a blissful 45 years married to her devoted husband, John Thomas Barnes, with whom she built a life rich in joy and shared purpose. Together, they raised a family that was her pride and joy, including sons Christopher Shay Barnes and Jonathan (Emily) Barnes. Although she was preceded in death by her son Scottie Daniel Barnes, her spirit lives on through her beloved grandchildren, Kaleb Daniel Barnes, Annabelle Marie Barnes White (Jacob), Joesph Tyler Barnes, Wyatt Lee Barnes, and Everett Jackson Barnes, as well as her great-grandchildren, Ophelia Snow White and Avianna Dee White.
Debra’s life was a testament to her capacity for love, as she was a sister to her late brothers Robert William Whitehead Jr., James Anthony Whitehead, and Calvin Lee Whitehead, and a ray of light to all her extended family and friends.
Professionally, Debra dedicated herself to serving others through her work with the Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program. She was a tireless advocate for those in need, providing guidance and support to countless individuals navigating health care challenges. Her passion for helping others extended into her personal life, where she was an active member of the Central Christian Fellowship Church for nine years and devoted 12 years to volunteering with the Lewis County Cancer Victims group. Her bright and beautiful smile was a source of comfort and inspiration to all she helped.
Debra’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she found profound joy in worshiping at her church. Her love for expressive worship was not only a personal journey but also a gift she eagerly shared, teaching others to express their faith through heartfelt praise. Her loving and thoughtful nature was evident in every aspect of her life, from her interactions with friends and family to her commitment to her community. Debra will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her spirited and thoughtful presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and faith will continue to touch the lives of those she loved for generations to come.
A visitation to honor Debra’s life was held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Central Christian Fellowship, with services at 11:00 a.m. The celebration of her life continued as she was laid to rest in Lewis County Memorial Gardens, with Brothers Chris Bean and Bill Webb officiating the ceremony.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Lewis County Cancer Victims Fund c/o Charlie Dugger.
