top of page

Jean Barnett

Jean Barnett, age 94, passed away in Santa Rosa on July 12, 2026, after a brief illness following a long battle with dementia.

 

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Barnett, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage before his passing in 2020. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and a love of the outdoors.

 

Born and raised in Sebastopol and educated at Stanford, Jean spent her adult years in Marin County, where she devoted herself to raising her family and embracing the natural beauty of California. She found joy in nature, travel, golf, gardening, and watercolor painting, pursuits that reflected her curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for the world around her.

 

Jean was known for her warmth and generosity of spirit. She always had a friendly smile and a kind word to share, and her genuine interest in others made her a lifelong friend to many. Her quiet kindness and gracious presence touched countless lives and will be remembered by all who knew her.

 

She is survived by her sister Doreen, sons Charlie and Michael, and her grandchildren, Kyle and Nora, who will cherish her memory and carry forward the values of kindness, friendship, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures that she embodied so well.

 

Jean’s family takes comfort in the many wonderful memories she leaves behind and in the lasting impact she had on the lives of those fortunate enough to know and love her.

 
 

Support The Ark’s commitment to high-impact community journalism.

The Ark, named the nation's best small community weekly for 2026, is dedicated to delivering investigative, accountability journalism with a mission to increase civic engagement and participation by providing the knowledge that can help sculpt the community and change lives. Your support makes this possible.

In addition to subscribing to The Ark for weekly home delivery, please consider making a contribution to support independent local journalism. For more information, contact Publisher & Advertising Director Henriette Corn at hcorn@thearknewspaper.com or 415-435-1190.​

bottom of page