Rich Valley, Virginia

Walter Grant “Grunt” Barrett, age 79, completed his work here on earth on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

They simply do not make men like Grant anymore. A proud United States Army Vietnam Veteran who served one tour in Korea, Grant was as tough as they come, yet those who truly knew him also knew the softer side that age and love brought out in him. He was the kind of man who said exactly what was on his mind, usually leaving everyone around him red in the face from laughing. With his mischievous grin and playful personality, it was nearly impossible not to grin right back at him. In true Grant fashion, he would often jokingly remind everyone that he “loved to rub on pretty women.” Grant was a hardworking man who spent many years in travel construction, helping build coal tipples and doing the kind of hard labor that shaped both his hands and his character. He believed in providing for his family, no matter the sacrifice, and carried that responsibility with quiet pride. He loved the outdoors and found peace bass fishing with his brother, hunting, riding around in his “goof cart,” and crafting walking canes by hand, making thirty-two of them over the years. Of all the memories he carried, one of his fondest was helping his brothers, Jeff and Donald, build Jeff’s log home together, creating something that would stand the test of time, much like the bond they shared. Though Grant could be stubborn, rough around the edges, and private about many parts of his life, underneath it all was a man with a tremendous heart. He stood tall for his family and loved them deeply in his own steadfast way. He was a protector, a provider, and a steady presence through both good times and hardships. He survived war, loss, and life’s many trials with strength and determination, never asking for sympathy and never backing down from hard times. Now, the tools are finally laid down, the work is complete, and Grant has gone home to rest beside the love of his life, Bessie.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bessie Mills Barrett; parents, Walter and Judith Bogus Barrett; and brothers, Donald Stephen Barrett and David Alvis Barrett.

Grant is survived by his children, Walter Grant Barrett, Jr., and Bethany of Rich Valley, Va., Charles Jeffrey Barrett and Shannon of Jupiter, Fla., Judith Ann Barger and James of Rich Valley, Va., Dianna Marie Metz and Ellis of Tazewell, Va., and Brenda Lee Barrett of Rich Valley, Va.; siblings, Susan Wilson and Danny of Piney Creek, N.C., Jeff Barrett and Debbie of Saltville, Va., and Cheryl Harris and Kenny of Piney Creek, N.C.; grandchildren, Justin Taylor, Ethan Medlin, Jamie Barger, Kevin Barrett, and Dennis Barrett; four great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; special friends, Curt, Harry, Tim, Jackie, and Jerry; and dog friend, Pixie Pearl.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care they provided, especially Senior Helpers caregiver, Misty Hayes of Saltville, for coming and taking care of Grant like her own father. Also, a special thanks to Alisha Isom, the possum lady.

Military honors will be rendered by the U.S. Army and VFW Post #4667 on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the home he and his brothers built, 504 Lick Skillet Road, Saltville, Va. 24370.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Walter Grant “Grunt” Barrett.