Obituary of David F. Barnett

David F. Barnett, 82, of Pine Beach passed away at home on Friday, Feb. 6, 2009 . Beloved husband of the late Jane (2004) he is survived by six children; Robert Barnett, June Barnett, Sheryl Barnett, Jerome and Donna Barnett, Edward and Diane Barnett and Richard Barnett. Six grandchildren; Audra and John Yacka, Michael and Darla Reed, Justyn Hosier, McKenzie Barnett, David and Elliot Barnett and their mother Mary Mitchell Barnett; six great grandchildren; Joey, Syvanna, Zoe, David, Dylan and Christian. David was born and raised in Philadelphia . A talented musician, he played professionally for over sixty-six years. He was proud to be a lifetime member of the Philadelphia Musicians Union. He played with many Big Bands in the 40’s and 50’s getting his start at the famous Palumbos Night Club. Dave toured from New England to Texas with the Hal Macintyre, Mal Hallet and the Chan Chandler Bands along with limited engagements with Eddie Duchin and Fats Waller. Coming off the road he and his wife settled their family on Long Beach Island in 1956 where they owned Barnett’s Custard Stand, now known as the Islander Restaurant. He also served on the Ship Bottom Borough Council. In 1965 he moved his family to Toms River where he was employed at the Jersey Shore Savings and Loan. In addition to his day job, he played with many local wedding and dance bands, most notably: The Murray Kay Band in Lakewood , the Blazers and the Joe, Mike, David Band in the Toms River area. David played at many Jersey Shore hot spots including the Anchor Inn and Olsen’s Bar and Grill. In 1989 he retired to Putney , VT after twenty-six years as a Vice President of Jersey Shore Savings and Loan. While caring for his ailing wife, he played for many bands in Vermont and New Hampshire , most notably the American Legion Band and its Dixieland ensemble. He will be missed by his large family and many friends. Friends are invited to celebrate David’s life with his family on Sunday, February 22, from 2 to 4 pm with a prayer service being offered at 3:30 pm at the Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Ave. , Toms River, NJ. A memorial service will be held 6:30 pm on Monday, Feb. 23 at the Putney Meadows, 17 Carol Brown Way , Putney , VT. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory to the American Legion Band, 804 Guilford Center Road , Guilford , VT , 05301 , would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.kedzfuneralhome.com.