Charles Gerald Barnett

Glen Carbon:

Charles Gerald Barnett, affectionately known to family and friends as Jerry, Jake, or Charlie, passed away peacefully at 9:33 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Illinois. He was 88 years old.

Charlie was born December 10, 1937, in Alton, Illinois, the son of the late Charles R. and Ruth E. (Young) Barnett. On October 26, 1957, he married the love of his life, Shirley (Shoemaker) Barnett, in Alton. Together, they built a loving family and shared nearly 69 years of marriage.

In addition to his devoted wife, Shirley, Charlie is survived by his sister, Marjorie Schwaab of Alton; three daughters, Carol (Fred) Ehlke of Highland, Barb (Jordan) Buck of St. Jacob, and Jeri (Daniel) Dietz of Florissant, Missouri; and two sons, Steve (Monique) Rogier of Shiloh and Steve "Mac" (Joanne) McPherson of Hill City, South Dakota.

Charlie was a proud grandfather to Nonie (Randy) Murdick, Katie (Darrell) Ferkel, Christopher (Brianna) Ehlke, Andrew Buck, Claire (Evan) Garner, Jackson Buck, Ella Buck, Ryan Dietz, Jessica Dietz (Jake Crist), Josh Dietz, Betsy (Darren) Hooks, David (Madelyn) Rogier, Jacob (Richelle) Rogier, Katherine McPherson, and Connor McPherson. He was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren: Abram, Elena, Zechariah, Athena, Warren, Herschel, Willa, Teddy, Russell, Emily, and Owen. He will also be dearly missed by many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Charlie devoted his life to public service. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he went on to build a distinguished law enforcement career spanning more than 40 years. He served with the Alton Police Department and the Highland Police Department, where he became chief of police, as well as the Clinton County Sheriff's Office. He later served as chief of police for the Waterloo Police Department before continuing his work there as a school resource officer.

Following his retirement from law enforcement, Charlie and Shirley moved to Longboat Key, Florida, where they managed a condominium complex for nearly twenty years before retiring once again. During their years in Florida, they formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed countless beautiful sunsets on the beach. They recently returned to Illinois to be closer to family.

Charlie’s Christian faith was at the heart of his life. He loved the Lord and found great comfort in him. The Lord guided him through both joyful and difficult times. He was a member of First Brethren Church in Sarasota, Florida, and Community Bible Church in Swansea, Illinois.

One of Charlie's greatest passions was motorcycle touring. He and Shirley traveled together by motorcycle through all 50 states and much of Canada. During a memorable trip to Hawaii, they rented a motorcycle so they could check the final state off their bucket list. Their many adventures reflected Charlie's love of travel, the open road, and, above all, spending time with those he loved.

Charlie also had a special place in his heart for young people. Throughout his career and church life, he devoted himself to helping children in his community. He established the D.A.R.E. program in Waterloo schools, raised money and collected teddy bears for children with cancer, and never hesitated to help a child in need. Over the years, he and Shirley welcomed several young people into their home and family. His faith, kindness and love for others will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

In accordance with his wishes, Charlie was cremated. A private family burial will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

A celebration of Charlie's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Community Bible Church, 4940 Benchmark Centre Drive, Swansea, Illinois 62226. Visitation will be held at the church from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the service. Pastor Steve Rogier will officiate.

Condolences and memories may be shared through the online guestbook at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.