DeMaris Diane Pugh Barnett, 54, of Greenwood, Arkansas, passed away on April 15, 2024 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. DeMaris accepted Jesus as her savior at an early age and lived her life as a Christian. Born on February 20, 1970 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Larry Duane and Sherri Elaine Ellington Pugh. DeMaris grew up in Waldron, Arkansas and married Danny Barnett also of Waldron in 1991. DeMaris drew strength from a supportive family. Even though Danny’s job took him away from Arkansas, he worked hard, provided for and loved his family. DeMaris always wanted to be a mother. She and Danny were blessed with two boys, Nicholas Allen and Daly Austin. DeMaris was an awesome mom.
DeMaris was athletic. She was an All-State Volleyball player in high school. DeMaris played the French horn and was drum major in her high school band. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Central Arkansas and two Master’s Degrees from the University of Arkansas in Special Education and Educational Leadership. She went on to a career in teaching and leading Special Education and Federal Programs. She was the Director of Special Education for the Greenwood Arkansas School District where she worked since 2004. DeMaris also worked for the school districts in Huntsville, Waldron and Booneville, Arkansas. She had an impact on many children with special needs and their families. She was a mentor to younger professionals and seemed to always know how to handle a particularly delicate situation. DeMaris was known for her involvement in Special Olympics and promoting mental health services in the schools.
DeMaris leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Danny Barnett, two children, Nicholas and Daly Barnett. DeMaris leaves behind mothers Sherri Ellington McLaughlin of Kansas City, Missouri and Carolyn Fielding Pugh of Waldron, Arkansas; sisters Dana Stockton with husband Donald of Waldron, Arkansas and DuLane Gash with husband Darryl Gash of Bryant, Arkansas and nephews Clayton and Eric Stockton, as well as many friends whom she thought of as family. DeMaris also leaves behind her puppies Lizzie Beth and Ollie and three cats.
DeMaris was preceded in death by her father, Larry Pugh, grandparents Nita & Everett (Mamaw & Papaw) Ellington and Inez & RC “Bud” (Nanny & Grandad) Pugh.
DeMaris loved animals. She got her first cat when she moved to college her freshman year, Cleopatra. As soon as she had her own place, she and Danny immediately got two dogs, Samantha and Abby, then later Scooby. DeMaris always had many dogs and cats. She fed the birds in her backyard because she and her pets enjoyed watching them. DeMaris was a strong swimmer and enjoyed being in and around the water. DeMaris spent several summers as a lifeguard in Waldron. DeMaris was a die-hard Razorback fan. She enjoyed attending football, baseball and basketball games. She was an avid reader and often enjoyed sharing books with her sisters and friends. DeMaris enjoyed watching movies with her family and friends. She particularly liked Marvel movies and funny movies. DeMaris was always there to help those in need. She opened her home and her life to many. DeMaris loved driving her Volkswagen beetle convertible.
DeMaris’ memorial celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas. A visitation will be held at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas on Friday, April 19, 2024 at 5:00 – 7:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Greenwood Special Olympics 316 North Daisy Street, Greenwood, AR 72936.
DeMaris left us much too soon. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered for her kindness and love.
