04/10/2026
Paul C. “Smoke” Barrett, 83 of Jacksonville, passed away Thursday April 9, 2026, at his residence. He was born February 7, 1943, in Athens, Ohio. He was the son of the late Paul L. and Hilma H. Chalfant Barrett. He graduated in 1961 from JT High School. During his time there, he earned recognition as a standout athlete in baseball, football, and basketball. In his senior year, he played quarterback, and his remarkable talent was noted in an article, which claimed he could throw a football through the eye of a needle. He retired from AEP Meigs Mine #2 after many years of service. In addition to his mining career, he served as a Trimble Township Trustee for several years, contributing to his community’s governance. He also worked as an Iron Worker for his family’s business, Buckeye Erecting. He was actively involved in sports coaching and instruction. He served as an assistant golf coach for Trimble High School, and taught golf at Ohio University, sharing his expertise and passion for the sport with students. He was a dedicated member of several organizations, including the Fairview Holiness Church in Morgan County, UMWA, Trimble Masonic Lodge #557, and the Scottish Rite. His commitment to these groups reflected his strong community ties. An avid golfer, he was also a passionate fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns, and boxing. He coached football and baseball for the Trimble Youth League for several years, helping young athletes develop their skills. He enjoyed being involved in local politics and took pride in assisting others in their efforts to get elected. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife Linda Rae Border Barrett of Jacksonville; a son Jay (Tia) Barrett of Glouster; grandchildren Noah Barrett of Athens, Tyler (Sheri) Barrett of Glouster, and Joel (Krystal) Barrett of Glouster; great grandchildren Gus, Alayna, Trace, Krew, Ellanor, Rosaleigh, and Teagan; one sister Carol (Richard) Starling of Amesville; and several nieces and nephews and friends.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Susan Parker.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm on Wednesday April 15, 2026, at the Bishopville Church of Christ, Glouster-Bishopville, with Pastor Ben Truman officiating. Inurnment will take place in the Maplewood Cemetery, Glouster. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 1:00 pm until the time of the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to Morrison Funeral Chapel. A message of comfort may be sent to the family by visiting his tribute wall at www.morrisonfc.com.