Reginald R. Barnett

REGINALD RENNIE BARNETT was born on August 15, 1957 in Brunswick, Maine. He was the third of four children born to the late Theodore Wellington Barnett Sr. and Frances Nell Barnett. The Barnetts were a Navy family and made San Diego their permanent home. Reggie attended Ocean View Elementary School, St. Rita’s Catholic School, Knox Elementary, Gompers Junior High School, and Snyder Continuation. Reggie completed catholic catechism at St. Jude’s Shrine. As a child he regularly attended mass at St. Rita’s and got his Baptist training in Italy TX when he lived with his grandmother. Reggie accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal savior on more than one occasion and understood the words saved by grace. Baseball was always Reggie’s sport and he was a natural. He excelled in Little League and was a favorite with his coaches. He could pitch, hit and catch, but his spot was first base. Wherever he was in life, he played baseball. His love for baseball was so genuine that no matter where or who he played for, even recovery games, he would show up fully dressed in his very own uniform. Reggie’s favorite musical group was the Dramatics and his favorite song was, “Whatcha See is Whatcha Get”. When he was younger, he liked music, dancing and house parties. Reggie was popular and got along with everyone. Unless it was related to baseball, he didn’t take himself too seriously, he had a great sense of humor and would give you a nick name in a minute. He referred to his sister’s family as “the Waltons.” Reggie had one son, Reginald Barnett Jr., whose last name was later changed to Smith to match that of his adopted mother, Monice Smith. The family is eternally grateful to Monice for her willingness to not just allow, but to encourage Reggie and his family to remain in the life of his son. Reggie knew he was cared about and loved. He loved you right back and never hesitated to tell you. Reggie had a sharp memory and good math skills. He could often be found downtown playing dominoes or dice. He was a survivor on the streets of San Diego, but in the wee morning hours of March 1, 2021 he passed peacefully at Scripps Mercy Hospital. Reggie leaves to celebrate his homegoing, his 10 year old son, Reggie Junior; a sister, Rachel B Henry (Kenny Henry) and his devoted brother Stacey Barnett. Four nieces; Frances R. Womack (Damion), Tiara M. Henry, Francesca Barnett, and Damia Womack; Four nephews; Stacey Barnett, Jr., Kenny C. Henry III, Larnell Simpson, Jr. and Damion Womack Jr. He leaves to mourn his passing a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. Reggie was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore W. and Frances N. Barnett, his grandmother Mrs. Perrilla Johnson Thompson, his Brother Teddy Barnett, Jr. and his uncle Johnny L. Johnson. Also, preceding him in death most recently was his beloved adopted godmother, Mrs. Velma Belcher, who was crazy about him as a child, encouraged him throughout his life and loved him unconditionally. Reggie we love you and you will remain forever in our hearts. Graveside services for Reggie will be held Monday, March 22nd at Mt. Hope Cemetery at 12 PM.

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