The Clinton County community learned of the passing of a prominent figure in the Clinton Central community and surrounding community as a whole in early April, and the Clinton Central community has since honored her as a Pillar of the School Corporation.
On April 3, the community was informed of the passing of Linda Barnett, who was a renowned member of the community with various ties to Clinton Central, the Michigantown Lions Club, community organizations, sports organizations and much more with an added knack for cooking up smiles with her catering.
Barnett was also a renowned figure in the state as she was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003, which is an honor she received after her extensive career in sports. Barnett attended Indiana Central, now known as University of Indianapolis, where she earned 12 athletic letters before she began her teaching and coaching career at Zionsville High School. During her time with the Zionsville basketball program beginning in the 1973-1974 season, Barnett led the team to a record of 67 wins and only 28 losses over six years.
Following her time with Zionsville, Barnett moved into the Clinton Central family to coach and serve as the school’s athletic director, eventually finishing her coaching career with a record of 395 wins and 183 losses after the 2003-2004 season. Barnett also served as an assistant coach for the Indiana All-Star Team in 1988 and served on the Indiana High School Athletic Association Board of Directors from 2000 to 2004.
Barnett was renowned for her coaching ability, but she was also a major influence in the community for her catering business, Linda Barnett Catering. From Cook’s Night Off events to benefit Clinton Prairie to catering the Clinton Central FFA Banquets to ensuring the best quality food was served at the Michigantown Lions Club breakfasts, Barnett’s cooking became a large aspect of the draw to numerous events.
The community gathered in her honor for a celebration of life in early May with current and past students, staff and coaches speaking kindly of her dedication to the community and the growth of the students at Clinton Central.
The Clinton Central School Corporation released a statement this morning, May 17 in her honor. The statement read:
Clinton Central School Corporation’s legendary coach and Athletic Director, Linda Barnett, passed away on April 3, 2024. Linda was a cherished member of the Clinton Central School Corporation family. Linda, who served as a former coach, athletic director, mentor, and significant contributor to our school, has left an indelible mark on our community. Her legacy of excellence and dedication will forever be remembered and honored.
Born on September 22, 1948, in Frankfort, IN, Linda Barnett was a beacon of inspiration and tireless service throughout her life. She embarked on her journey at Indiana Central, where she showcased her athletic prowess as a standout player in 6 on 6 basketball before seamlessly transitioning to the modern era of 5 on 5. Her remarkable achievements earned her the title of “Miss Do Everything,” amassing an impressive 12 athletic letters during her college years.
Linda’s passion for teaching and coaching ignited as she began her career at Zionsville High School. In 1973, she assumed leadership of the basketball program, swiftly amassing a record of 67 wins and only 28 losses over six seasons. Her expertise and dedication then led her to Clinton Central, where she continued to mold young athletes and shape the future of our school as both a coach and athletic director. Her tenure culminated in the 2002-03 season, where she concluded with a remarkable won-loss record of 395-183.
Beyond her accomplishments on the court, Linda Barnett’s impact extended far and wide. Named the Lafayette Area Coach of the Year in 1997, she also served as Assistant Coach for the Indiana All-Star Team in 1988 and contributed her expertise to the IHSAA Board of Directors from 2000 to 2004. Her commitment to education, athletics, and community enrichment knew no bounds.
“Linda Barnett was more than a coach; she was a pillar of strength and inspiration,” remarked Jeremy M. Fewell, Superintendent of Clinton Central School Corporation. “Her unwavering dedication to our students and the community resonated deeply with all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
In addition to her illustrious career, Linda Barnett was known for her boundless generosity and unwavering devotion to her family. She leaves behind her loving husband Jerry Barnett of 55 1/2 years, her brother Mark Rule and sister-in-law Jennifer Rule of Forest, IN, brother-in-law Jim Barnett and sister-in-law Karen Barnett of Mechanicsburg, IN, as well as cherished nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Linda’s warmth, kindness, and selflessness touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring legacy of love and compassion.
In remembrance of Linda Barnett’s extraordinary life and contributions, the Clinton Central School Corporation extends its deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.