Harry Daniel Barnett

Harry Daniel Barnett, 73, of Alexandria, Virginia, peacefully departed in the comfort of his home, with his devoted wife and daughter by his side, in the early hours of Sunday morning, October 26, 2025.

Born June 9, 1952, in Lynchburg, Virginia, Harry was the youngest of six siblings to Harry Barnett and Dorothy Smith Barnett. From an early age, he displayed curiosity, determination, and a generous spirit. Harry was introduced to Christ by his father at an early age while attending Greater Peaceful Zion Baptist Church of Lynchburg, VA.

Harry was a graduate of E.C. Glass High School, Class of 1970, where he played football, ran indoor and outdoor track. He excelled in the classroom as a member of the Honor Society and as a decorated track athlete, earning the admiration of his teammates and coaches. His passion for his education and athletics continued at Lynchburg College, where he ran track and earned his Bachelor's degree as part of the Class of 1974.

In 1973, while visiting a friend at Norfolk State University, Harry met a bright, kind and beautiful young woman named Joyce Brenda Bailey of East Orange, New Jersey. That chance encounter blossomed into a lifelong love story. After years of living in New Jersey, they would move together to Northern Virginia in 1982. They would eventually get married on October 1, 1983, beginning more than four decades of faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Despite health concerns, they were blessed to have two children. While regularly attending, they joined Mount Olive Baptist Church of Arlington, VA on April 6, 1997 where they would become lifelong members.

His older brother, Ken, taught him the fundamentals of computer coding while working on Wall Street. Harry’s brother provided a vision that would shape the course of his younger brother’s professional life. Harry’s dedication and natural aptitude quickly turned that opportunity into a long and successful career in information technology. Over the years, he worked for MCI and several other government contractors, applying his technical skill and steadfast work ethic to projects that mattered. He was one of the original contractors hired for Homeland Security that continued to work after the events of 9/11.

Harry was known for his readiness to help, it didn’t matter the situation, all you had to do was give him a call. He meant what he said and always delivered. The choices Harry made consistently aligned with God, Family and Friends. He devoted his life to Christ, his family, his grandchildren, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful. Those who knew him best remember his gentle humor, unwavering loyalty, and the way he carried himself with humility, discipline with a smile on his face. Always being able to see the positive things of life. That positivity was contagious and inspired others around him. His best quality was the ability to have fun with an ordinary day.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Brenda Bailey Barnett of Alexandria, VA; his daughter, Magen Danielle Barnett of Washington, DC; his son, Dustin Daniel Barnett; and his cherished grandchildren, Wynter, Sevin, and Laila of Woodbridge, VA. He is also survived by his oldest living relative, his mother’s sister, Tina Carter of Washington, DC, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will hold his memory close.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Barnett and Dorothy Smith Barnett; and his siblings Gordon Dabney, Elsie Barnett-Fulton, Pat Chinchester, Ken Barnett and Vivian Barnett.