It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family and community of Pilot Oak, Kentucky, mourn the passing of Ethan Charles Barnett, age 23.
Ethan passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, love, and light that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Born on October 27, 2001, in Mayfield, Kentucky, Ethan was a beacon of joy and generosity throughout his short but impactful life.
Ethan was the kind of person who could light up a room simply by walking into it. Known for his welcoming spirit and ever-present smile, he was beloved by all who met him.
Whether he was cracking a joke, lending a helping hand, or offering a listening ear, Ethan brought warmth and comfort to every situation. His heart was as big as his love for life, and he always put others before himself.
A proud graduate of the Class of 2020 from St. Mary High School, Ethan was pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at the University of Kentucky. He was deeply committed to his studies and passionate about using his education to make a difference.
His love for science was matched only by his love for sports. A devoted fan of Kentucky basketball, Ethan rarely missed a home game and was an avid supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL.
Beyond academics and sports, Ethan was actively involved in his faith and community. He was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus.
He also belonged to the Beta Theta Pi fraternity, where he found deep friendship and camaraderie. Whether through service, brotherhood, or faith, Ethan poured his heart into everything he did.
In his free time, Ethan found peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing at his pond, golfing with friends, and watching movies with his family. He found joy in moments of stillness and laughter, and he always took the time to enjoy life’s quiet blessings.
Ethan’s love for his family ran deep. He was a devoted son, a loving brother, and a loyal friend. He would stop everything to help someone in need, no matter how big or small the task. Those closest to him will forever remember his selflessness, compassion, and the way he made each person feel truly valued and loved.
Ethan is survived by his loving parents, John and Vanessa Barnett; his cherished sister, Bradyn Barnett; and his maternal grandparents, Bill and Mary Lou Russelburg. He is also remembered with love by his aunts and uncles: David and Kim Barnett, Lyn Warner, Mike and Sharon Champy, and Jerry and Barbara Jean Hayden, along with several cousins and countless friends who became like family.
He is now reunited with those who passed before him, including his maternal grandfather, Charles Champy; paternal grandparents, A.D. Barnett and Thelma Futrell; his beloved aunt, Mary Jane Tucker; cousin, Caleb Barnett; great aunt and uncle, Tom and Marie Ellegood; and great uncle, James Champy.
A Funeral Mass in celebration of Ethan’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, May 12, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mayfield, officiated by Fr. Eric Riley and Deacon Michael Clapp. Burial will follow at the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to visit beginning at 11:00 AM on Monday until the time of service.
Pallbearers for the service will be Will Muiter, Keaton Elliott, Joey Eggemeyer, Billy Johnston, Jessie Wilson, and David Barnett. Honorary pallbearers will include members of the St. Mary High School Class of 2020 and the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Ethan’s memory to consider donations to the St. Mary School System, 1243 Elmdale Road, Paducah, KY 42003; or St. Joseph Catholic Church, 702 W Broadway, Mayfield, KY 42066.
Ethan Charles Barnett will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, joy, and unwavering love will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the blessing of knowing him.
