It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Sonya Kay "Nonnie" Barnett, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, devoted educator, and cherished member of her church home, First Christian Church in Port Arthur. Born on July 19, 1936, in Pampa, Texas, Sonya departed this life on March 12, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas. Her journey of 89 years was marked by unwavering dedication to family, faith, and the noble calling of teaching.
Sonya’s life was a testament to her steadfast commitment to education and her deep love for those around her. Sonya spent many years as a math teacher within the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District, where she touched the lives of countless students. She also proudly sponsored the PNG High School cheerleaders, mentoring and encouraging generations of students with the same warmth and care she showed her own family. Beyond the classroom, Sonya was most renowned for her devotion to her church and her church family, finding solace and strength in her faith while actively participating in the life of the congregation and serving in many leadership roles. Her love for the Lord was second to none.
Affectionately known as "Nonnie" to those who loved her best, she was a steadfast pillar of support for her family. She found special joy in the simple moments of watching her family continue to grow. In her home was a toy room where she enjoyed watching her youngest great-grandchildren play. Many days she also spent time watching them play just outside her home, where time on swings and yard toys filled her heart with sweet moments in time. She treasured time spent watching all of her loved ones excel in sports and dance, always cheering them on with heartfelt encouragement. She treasured every opportunity to see the next generation thrive while reminding them their strength comes from above.
Sonya was united in marriage to her beloved husband of 53 years, Mike Barnett, Sr., whose memory she cherished deeply. Together, they built a life grounded in love, respect, and shared devotion. She was the daughter of the late Chesta Carl Franks and Amanda Myatt Franks, whose legacies continued to live through her.
She leaves behind a grateful family who will carry forth her spirit and teachings. Her sons, Mike Barnett, Jr. and his wife, Tracy of Port Neches, and Lance Barnett and his wife, Alicia, of Groves, stand firmly beside her legacy. Her heart expanded further with her grandchildren: Staci Gary and her husband, Jared; Drew Barnett; and Kelsey LaCour and her husband, Tyler. Generations have been touched by her kindness, including her great-grandchildren Lawsen Gary, Leyton Gary, Loren Gary, Landrie Gary, Brayden Bromonsky, Shep LaCour, and Sutton LaCour, each of whom will remember her love and guidance. Additionally, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Franks.
Sonya is once again reunited with her husband, Mike Barnett, Sr., her parents, Chesta Carl Franks and Amanda Myatt Franks, and her grandson, Michael "Trey" Barnett, III, who preceded her in death.
The visitation will be held on March 16, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at First Christian Church of Port Arthur, located at 5856 9th Avenue, Port Arthur, Texas 77642. The funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. All who knew Sonya are invited to attend and celebrate a life so beautifully lived, to honor her memory, and to find comfort in the fellowship of family and friends. The family will travel to Oak Bluff Memorial Park for a private burial.
Sonya Kay "Nonnie" Barnett’s life was a fabric woven with love, faith, and an enduring desire to share her love for the Lord with others. Though the sorrow of her departure is great, the legacy she leaves behind is a beacon of light inspiring all generations to come. May her soul rest in eternal peace, embraced in the gentle arms of grace.