Karen Ann Barrett

Karen Ann Barrett passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of July 7, 2026, at Noxubee County Nursing Home in Macon, MS. Karen had recently moved back to Macon to receive skilled care as the effects of Lewy Body dementia became more challenging to manage.

Funeral arrangements for Karen are being handled by Cockrell Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 8:30 AM on Friday, July 10th at Macon Presbyterian Church., with the funeral service immediately following at 10:00 AM at Macon Presbyterian. A private family graveside will follow at Oddfellows Cemetery in Macon, MS. Reverend Phillip Palmertree will officiate the services.

Born on January 15, 1956, Karen was the oldest child of John and Ann Barrett. She was born and raised in Macon, graduating from Central Academy in 1974. Growing up in her small, close-knit hometown, Karen’s childhood was rather idyllic. Going to The Book Store, swimming at the American Legion pool, playing in the neighborhood, participating in piano recitals and choir performances, and enjoying special time with her Ford grandparents occupied much of her time. Karen adored her parents and honored them well throughout their lives. Unlike her two younger siblings, Johnny and Betsy, Karen rarely misbehaved or “got into trouble” as a child. The highlight moments of her childhood involved spending time with her parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents at family reunions, or on holidays and vacations.

Karen earned a degree from MUW in Music Education and later became certified in Elementary Education. As an adult, she enjoyed participating in Junior Auxiliary, and was honored as the Charity Ball Queen in 2006. Her other interests included DAR and The Woman’s Study Circle.

Karen’s lifelong love of the church was fostered as a child. She joined Macon Presbyterian Church in her junior high years and began serving immediately. Whether it was Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Prayer meetings, Bible Study, or Sunday Worship, Karen was a joyful and faithful servant. Her contributions to Macon Presbyterian were centered in the music and children’s ministries of the Church. She loved singing in choirs and teaching young children. Her tenure as the church organist spanned decades. For her entire life, the people of Macon Presbyterian Church served as an extension of her family.

Karen had a unique ability to connect, communicate, and build trust with children. She used this gift most notably as a Kindergarten teacher at Central Academy in Macon, MS for approximately 30 years. Afterwards, Karen assisted her best friend, Cathy Booth, for several years in her daycare business in Aliceville, AL. Of course, Karen cherished her time with her four nephews, as well as the Russell boys of Aliceville, AL. During her life, Karen’s sweet and gentle manner served to communicate her Savior’s love to hundreds of children throughout the area. Although small in stature, Karen Barrett had a giant impact on children.

Karen was preceded in death by her grandparents, Burton and Florence Futvoye Ford and Homer and Bess McNees Barrett; and her parents, John and Ann Ford Barrett. She is survived by brother, Johnny (Ev) of Oxford, MS; sister, Betsy (Eb) Bailey of Apex, NC; four nephews, Matt Bailey (Adilen), Michael Bailey, John Barrett (Mariel Soehner), and Jim Barrett; great-nephew Clarkson Bailey and great-niece Lilliana Bailey; Best friend Cathy Booth, and her husband Cousin Billy Booth of Aliceville, AL; and numerous other loving cousins.

Memorials may be made to Macon Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 47, Macon, MS 39341, where they will be used in their Children’s Ministry. Other alternatives include a children’s charity of your choice or the Lewy Body Dementia Association, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.