Carolyn Smith Barnett

Carolyn Smith Barnett passed away on May 22nd after a long battle with Alzheimer. She leaves behind a daughter Michelle Marie Rogers, son in law Larry Gardner Brown, sister Priscilla Gallogly (Myron) grandchildren: Chase Elliott Wilkerson, Grea Dalton(Meg) Smith and Corey Derrill Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Frank Elliott Barnett, daughters Stephanie Ann Weins and Laurel Kay Weins. Carolyn lived a very full life. She had three beautiful daughters and worked as a Secretary until she met and married Governor Frank Barnett, Pago Pago, American Samoa. They travelled meeting dignitaries all over the world. She even had the honor of dining with Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip. Upon returning from the South Pacific, they settled in Knoxville, TN where she finished her Bachelor’s degree in Finance at the University of Tennessee. Carolyn had many hobbies that kept her busy. As the President of the Knoxville Symphony League she raised money and brought awareness to the great music and opportunities available to the Knoxville Community. Tennis was a passion spending much of her spare time on the courts. She was also an avid skier and would head west with all her friends every year for weeks of skiing. She was active in the Knoxville Garden Club and helped with fund raising as the opportunity arose … always willing to help where ever she was needed. She was a gourmet cook who delighted her friend with her cooking and elegant fare. In the last years of her life, she lived at Brookdale Belle Meade in the memory care unit. The staff was exceptional and like family to Carolyn. We could not be more grateful for their time and patience over the years and especially during the COVID19 pandemic. The staff was a great source of comfort to the family during a most difficult time. Alive Hospice, who provided support during her final days, was very much appreciated by the family. The family will have a private gathering in Knoxville at Edgewood Cemetery to inter her ashes next to her husband, Frank Barnett.