Robert 'Lex' Barnett, 91, of O'Brien, Florida, passed away on October 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and devotion to his family, faith, and passions. Born on March 9, 1933, in O'Brien, Lex lived a life defined by his deep love for his family, and unwavering faith.

Lex's life was one of movement and discovery. Whether exploring the world through the lens of his beloved camera—fondly referred to as his "Canon"—or pushing himself as a multi-sport athlete in high school, he never sat still for long. His athletic talent earned him a college scholarship, paving the way for a lifelong passion for sports and his devotion to the Florida Gators.

A natural leader and teacher, Lex was a guiding light for many as a coach, teacher, and later, as a college administrator. His time working for Yellowstone National Park reflected his adventurous spirit and desire to explore the beauty of the world around him.

Lex's faith was unwavering. As a dedicated member and deacon of Holiday Hill Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida, his commitment to his faith community was profound. His leadership helped shape the church, as a pillar for the congregation for more than 25 years. In his quiet moments after retirement Lex found peace in his garden, watching the butterflies and hummingbirds' flit about, a reminder of the simple joys he appreciated in life. He will be remembered for his sense of adventure, and the deep love he shared with his family and friends.

His love for his wife, Clarice, whom he met in elementary school, was nothing short of extraordinary. The two were inseparable from the day they married in 1955, sharing 68 wonderful years together before Clarice's passing in 2023. Their love story was an inspiration to all who knew them. Family was the cornerstone of Lex's life. He adored his children sincerely. With the birth of his grandchildren, Lex found additional purpose and joy. They, along with his great-grandchildren, were the absolute light of his life.

Lex is survived by his daughters, Susan and Sandy (Jon); his grandchildren, Ryan (Jasmin), Michael (Laura), Christina (Grant), Amanda (Tim), Zee (Tyler), Carissa (Randy), and Zach (Casie); and his great-grandchildren, Adam, Anna, Ayla, Everly, Atticus, Ulysses, Ozias, Xavia, Huxley, and Zuri. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Clarice; his parents, Callie and Mac; his son, Donald; his son-in-law, David; his sisters, Naomi and Luzona; and his brothers Landis, David, WD, HA, and Bill. Lex's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and the joy of exploring the world and its wonders. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 27th at Daniels Funeral Home in Branford from 3:00 – 5:00 pm. Graveside services are Monday, October 28th, 10:00 AM, at Union Baptist Church Cemetery, O'Brien, FL.