William Curtis Barnett

William Curtis Barnett

July 30, 1948 – May 1, 2025

William “Curtis” Barnett, 76, of Denton, Texas, revved his engine one last time and rode off into the sunrise on Thursday, May 1, 2025. He left this world just the way he lived in it — on his own terms, with a grin, a good story, and a full tank of life well-lived.

Born July 30, 1948, in Fort Worth, Texas to Father, Weldon Curtis Barnett and Mother, Jessie Benios Karnes. While being raised in Brownwood, Texas, Curtis was never one to sit still. After successfully carrying on the family business in Arlington, he retired in 2008 and traded his desk for a saddle — the motorcycle kind — and began the adventure of a lifetime. And what an adventure it was: Curtis traveled to a staggering 138 countries, with 53 of them explored entirely by motorcycle. If there was an open road, a twisty mountain pass, or an obscure border crossing to be found, Curtis had likely ridden it — and probably made friends there, too.

Motorcycle riding wasn’t just a hobby for Curtis — it was his passion, his therapy, and his ticket to the world. But no matter how far his travels took him, his heart was always with his family.

He is survived by his Sweet-T (wife), Janet Barnett of Denton; his son, Bill Barnett and wife Sarah of Lantana; their children Tyler and Megan; and his stepdaughter, Robie Skari and husband JD of Arlington; their children, Jayton and Tatum. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a storyteller whose tales were only rivaled by his humor and his unforgettable, giant personality.

Curtis will be remembered for his booming laugh, adventurous soul, and the ability to make friends anywhere from a gas station in Peru to a café in Strawn, Texas. He will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing and loving him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a trip, tell a tall tale, or take a motorcycle ride in his honor — bonus points if you get lost on purpose.

Keep the throttle open, Curtis. The road ahead is all yours.