Mrs. Jackie Barnes Sheets, age 71, of McMinnville, TN, passed away peacefully Friday, December 22, 2023, holding her husband’s hand, and her family present, after a short illness with cancer. She was born June 12, 1952, in Wyandotte, MI, was a retired teacher of 25 years with Learning House Pre-School, a founding member of Pioneer Community Church where a handful of families turned an old school building into a church with regular Sunday attendance gaining over 300 people, she taught children’s church for over 30 years, loved gardening, flower beds, working outside, an avid yard sale enthusiast, she loved hidden treasurers amongst the junk at flea markets, was a talented artist who loved to paint and sold her canvases at Arts and Crafts shows. Jackie loved her grandkids, reading stories to them, teaching them to draw, paint, and make crafts. She was preceded in death by parents Austin James and Hattie Frances Wynns Barnes, son Denny Allen Sheets, and brothers Thomas Barnes and Jerald Barnes.
Survivors include her husband of 56 years Denny Amos Sheets, daughter Deana Sue (Brock) Stiles, grandchildren Daniel Allen (Maddie) Sheets, Katherine Grace Gilispie, Jacob Tucker Gilispie, a great-grandchild Roman “R.J.” Driver, sisters Harriet Prisza and Sandy Nance, and a brother Jim Barnes. Several beloved nieces, nephews, and many friends survive.
At her request, she will be cremated with no service and no flowers. A celebration of her life will be planned at a future time with family and close friends.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please send a small donation to Meals on Wheels, 106 East End Dr., McMinnville, TN 37110.
McMinnville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 931-473-6606.
