Philip Daniel Barnett

Philip Daniel Barnett was born on February 17, 1938, in Los Angeles, California. He was the second child of Daniel Coleman Barnett and Ethelyn Olive Bates (Barnett). He had an older brother, Leland Bruce, and two younger sisters, Linda Kathleen (Fitt) and Diane Ruth (Siufanua).

Philip grew up in Fontana, California, where he and his siblings shared a home filled with adventure and hard work. His father, a foreman, taught him scouting, camping, the value of dedication, and inspired his love of reading. His mother, always kind and supportive, helped him with schoolwork, celebrated him, and made sure he felt loved.

As a child, Philip was active in the Boy Scouts. He loved working with his hands, spending time in wood and metal shop classes, and riding horses bareback. His passion for music led him to play the trombone in the school band. A natural at mathematics, he often tutored his classmates in algebra including his future wife, Barbara McCauley.

Philip met the love of his life, Barbara Jean McCauley, when he was a senior in high school and she was a sophomore. They started dating in 1956 and married on April 1, 1960. Their marriage was sealed after his return from Korea on September 7, 1963, solidifying their eternal bond.

Philip completed one year of college before being drafted into the U.S. Army on April 12, 1960, later graduating with high honors in 1976. After his service, he worked for the telephone company in California before transferring to Utah in 1970. He and Barbara purchased their home in 1971, where they would build a lifetime of memories over 53 years. Philip worked for the phone company for 38 years, rarely missing a day. His work ethic and skill set led him to work on business accounts and even assist the FBI. In 1998, he received a certificate of appreciation for helping the President of the United States during a visit to Park City.

As a father, Philip was devoted and loving. He made a different breakfast for his children every morning, held their hands when they had bad dreams, and took them on memorable camping trips.

Philip loved the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a faithful home teacher and brought his sons with him to share the joy and love of his faith with them. In retirement, Philip and Barbara served on a mission to Alabama, continuing their legacy of service and faith.

Philip D. Barnett, beloved patriarch of the Barnett family and cherished member of the Bountiful, Utah community, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, surrounded lovingly by his wife, Barbara Jean Barnett, all of his children, many of his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Philip is survived by his wife, Barbara, and his children: Kelly Barnett, Timothy (Christina) Barnett, Kenneth Barnett, Mark Barnett, Shari (Dave) Winward, Todd (Brooke) Barnett, 23 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and his sisters Linda Kathleen Fitt and Diane Ruth Siufanua. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ethelyn Olive Bates (Barnett) and Daniel Coleman Barnett, as well as his brother, Leland Bruce Barnett.

Philip Daniel Barnett was a man of quiet service. He allowed his actions to speak, and they were actions of unwavering generosity. His legacy of love, dedication, and service echoes through the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 31, 2025, at the North Canyon 5th Ward, 2505 South Davis Blvd., Bountiful, Utah. A viewing will be held from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services on Friday. He will be laid to rest at the Hooper Cemetery.

For those honoring Philip virtually, please see the online guest book and instructions for the virtual service www.russonmortuary.com.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes prior to services and will be posted below.