SgtMaj Donald J. Barrett, USMC, Retired, age 74

SgtMaj Donald J. Barrett, USMC, Retired, age 74, of Rutherfordton, passed away Saturday, October 26, 2024.

Born in Dover, NJ on August 3, 1950, Don was one of two children of Frank and Grace Barrett. A proud US Marine, and Vietnam Veteran, Don lived a life of service. His illustrious career spanned from 1969 to 1995, serving as an 0351 Assaultman, 0369 Infantryman Unit Leader, 8511 Drill Instructor (MCRD Parris Island & MCRD San Diego), 8156 Marine Security Guard (US Embassy - Warsaw, Poland), 8421 Career Planner, 8999 First Sergeant & Sergeant Major. His personal decorations include; the Meritorious Service Medal, two Purple Hearts, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat "V", the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and two Combat Action Ribbons. Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, he established a new Marine Corps Junior ROTC Program at R-S Central High School. Under his leadership the program flourished; earning numerous awards. After 17 years, he retired from the Rutherford County School system.

Don was a charter member of the Corporal Chris S. Ebert Marine Corps League Detachment #1221, where he served as the Detachment Commandant. Coordinating activities between the R-S Central High School Marine Corps JROTC and Marine Corps League, Don started Forest City's Annual Memorial Day Ceremony; serving as Master of Ceremonies on several occasions. He also started the Toys for Tots program for Rutherford County.

SgtMaj Donald J. Barrett is survived by his wife, Ann, with whom he shared 28 years of marriage, his children, Donald J. Barrett Jr. USAF, Retired, Michael F. Barrett USMC, Retired, Tasha L. Barrett USMC Veteran, grandchildren Haley E. Barrett and Donald J. Barrett III, and his Brother Patrick Barrett.

Funeral services will be held November 10 at R-S Central High School. Visitation/Receiving will begin at 1pm; Service will begin at 2pm; followed by burial procession to Britain Presbyterian Church, 3456 US 64 Hwy, Rutherfordton, NC, supported by the NC Patriot Guard Riders. Military honors will be rendered by both the US Marine Corps, and Rutherford County Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor SgtMaj Donald J. Barrett by donating to his Marine Corps League Detachment #1221. Make checks payable to MCL Detachment 1221, PO Box 1293 Forest City, NC 28043.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.