William Michael Barnett Jr. “Mekiel”

William Michael Barnett Jr., age 57, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Michael was born on February 13, 1966, to William Michael Barnett and Marie Antionette Barnett in Orrville, Ohio.

Michael spent his childhood and young adult life in Israel, where he found his love for biblical history and the
Hebrew language and received his Hebrew name, Mekiel. From a young child, he loved to speak publicly and
entertain crowds. His mother has a fond memory of him reciting extensive speeches during Easter and Christmas
services as a young child. He had a gift when it came to communicating with people from all backgrounds and
walks of life.

Mekiel was very energetic and had a love for animals, people, and adventure. His adventurous spirit and love of
history fueled his passion for travel and exploration. Mekiel has traveled across the US and to many other
countries, such as Kazakhstan, Cyprus, Greece, Ukraine, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Israel, Switzerland, and the
Netherlands.

Mekiel had a special love for poetry and singing. During his time in Kazakhstan, he leaned into his love of
entertaining others and began his singing career. He traveled all around the country performing for parties and
weddings. His unique story caught the attention of a writer who decided to publish an article detailing Mekiel in a
local magazine.

Mekiel is survived by his daughter; Rebekah Barnett, mother; Marie Barnett, sister; Riva Barnett, brother;
Christopher Barnett, nieces; Edwina and Briesez Barnett, nephews; Sean and Edric Yeboah, and his uncles.

Mekiel is preceded in death by his father; William Michael Barnett, Doris Ann Coffie (maternal grandmother),
Carnice Crawley (maternal grandfather) Mildred Barnett (paternal grandmother), John William Barnett (paternal
grandfather), Orlando Tyron Barnett (uncle), Gregory Barnett (uncle), John Douglas Barnett (uncle), Denise Renee
Barnett (aunt).

Mekiel lived life on his own terms and created relationships with many people that he touched along the way of
this journey called life. He had an infectious smile that could light up a room and loved to make people laugh. He
always tried to live by a motto his father gave him: “Be the best that you can be in whatever you do in life.” He will
be remembered fondly by many loved ones and friends.

“Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean”

Visitation 1:00 PM and Funeral Service 2:00 PM Friday, May 12, 2023 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd).