Barney A. Smith, of Watertown, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on May 15, 1943, to Auda Gray (Charlie) and Baslie Smith.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. from the Ligon & Bobo Funeral Home with WEMA Chaplain Sue Street officiating. Interment will follow in Wilson County Memorial Gardens. Visitation Friday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Barney was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bettye Smith, who passed away on April 23, 2021. Barney and Bettye were married November 3, 1961 and built a family filled with love, memories, and a legacy that will continue through the generations.

Barney is survived by his five children: Johnny (Marie) Smith, Barney Jr. (Dana) Smith, Terry Smith, Donna (Bryan) Varvel, and Daphne (Bobby) Jones.

He was a proud grandfather to James Smith, Ryan Smith, Amanda Troutt, Bridgett (Richard) Flatt, Jeremy (Jennifer) Driver, Chelsea (Justin) Gray, Brooke (Jason) Holland, and Blake (Haylie) Borcherding, and was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Brian Smith.

His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Ean Smith, Dax Smith, Wednesday Smith, Cody Troutt, Madison Rolin, Billy Bob Rolin, Rone Flatt, Rayna Flatt, Rlo Flatt, Grayson Driver, Everly Broadway, Miles Gray, Chandler Gray, Ainsley Holland, Hayward Borcherding and Hudson Borcherding.

Barney was a longtime member of Peach Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Gallatin, where his faith was an important part of his life.

For his entire working life, Barney dedicated himself to the trade he loved as a paint and body repair mechanic. He took pride in his work and was known for his skill, dedication, and willingness to help others.

Barney is also survived by his siblings, Dolphus (Jeannie) Smith, Mary Jo Gray, and Aleda (Verble) Moore. He was preceded in death by James Smith, Charles Gray, Clara Morris, Edward Smith, and Clyde Gray.

Barney will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love for his family, his faith, and the many lives he touched throughout his 83 years. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created with his family and the legacy he leaves behind will live on in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, Barney. You will be loved and missed until we meet again.