Dennis K. Barrett passed into the loving arms of the Lord on January 8, 2021. He was born September 20, 1946, the son of Gerald and Emilie (Goodman) Barrett.
On January 11, 1974 he married Patricia M. Sorn. Dennis and Patricia were blessed with three children: Keith, Brian and Heidi.
Dennis assisted with farming and cheese factory duties over the years. Later he contracted with various businesses and Freeport Memorial Hospital In housekeeping/maintenance.
Dennis and Patricia were married 22 years before she preceded him in death due to cancer. Twelve years later, Dennis, by God’s grace met Sandy Shippy. Dennis and Sandy were married on December 20, 2008.
Dennis earlier years consisted of farming and cheese factory duties. Later he went on to work years with Newell company in maintenance and other various cleaning companies. Dennis was a long term and active member of New Covenant church, now known as Crossroads in Freeport, IL. He selflessly served weekly, attending services and prayer meetings. If the doors were open, he and the family would be there. Dennis was an encourager to others by sharing his strong faith in Christ. He had a heart of service for others. When he saw a need he tried to help where he could. He dedicated years of yard work and snow removal for elderly/shut ins, volunteering with the Salvation Army and seasonal bell ringing. Dennis enjoyed staying active and being outdoors coaching little league, bike riding and lots of walking.
His smile would light up and radiate with sincerity, warmth and care. Dennis was a friend to all striking up a conversation wherever he went. If you were to ask Dennis the reason for his joy, he would tell you because the good Lord gave him another day. Psalm 34:1 I will exalt the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.
Dennis is survived by his wife Sandy; two sons Keith Barrett of Pearl City, IL; Brian (Michelle) Barrett of Polo, IL; and daughter Heidi Barrett of Nashville, TN; two grandsons Kaleb (Emmalee) Barrett of Allen Park, MI; Everett Barrett of Wisconsin Dells; three step-grandchildren Marcus (Jenna) Almasy of Fort Polk, Louisiana, Kaleb Almasy of Freeport IL, Teah Almasy of Polo, IL; one sister Judy (Don) Glastetter of Lena, IL; one brother James Barrett of Freeport, IL; brother-in-law Duane (Pam) Shippy of Durand, IL; three sisters-in-laws Joyce (Dan) O’Connell of Dunlap, IL; Rhonda (Tony) Stockdale of Durand, IL; Penny Montana of Machesney Park, IL. Aunt Ruth, cousins, nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, first wife Patricia.
A memorial service will be held Monday, January 18, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., at the Monroe Bible Church with Mike Westcomb officiating. Visitation will be at the church on January 18, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in Dennis’ name. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is serving the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net
The family gives heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gaines Richardson, Monroe Clinic Hospice, our many dedicated caregivers, family and friends for your many hours of support and care. Dennis loved and cared for each of you in his own special way.
God has handpicked each of our circumstances to accomplish his purpose for our life. All we have to do is submit to his will. By his grace it will be done.
It has been a long journey but God has blessed us richly along the way. Your comfort and compassion will remain in our hearts forever. Once again, we send our love and thanks to all.
- The Family of Dennis K. Barrett
