Jessie Barney was born October 19, 1946, in Albany, Georgia.  He was the son of the late Ora Lee Mathis and Jessie Tift.

He received his formal education in the Dougherty Cunty School System while actively participating in various school functions and activities.

Jessie was a very persistent individual whose professional work life was very rewarding.  He was an incredibly skilled and gifted dry wall installer and finisher whose craftmanship was put to task in the construction industry for innumerable years.  His expertise and professional ethics were second to none and he worked tirelessly to ensure that no task was ever left undone.  In later years, he relocated to Orlando, Florida where he worked and resided until his demise.

"Baeboon," as he was affectionately called, loved his family; treasured his friends; and was always "on call" to help anyone in need.  He had a big heart for all things in life and found joy in every circumstance.  Although soft spoken and kind, Jessie also commanded respect—when he spoke others knew he meant business.  He will be missed by all who loved him dearly.

On July 4, 2021, Jessie departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest.   In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Patricia Mathis Cockfield, Johnny Mathis, and Melvin Barney.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his children, Tracey Barney and Terence Barney of Albany, GA; four grandchildren, Justice Barney, Jashaed Richardson, Maurice (Evergreen) Barney, and Merita Kendrick; six great grandchildren; siblings, Annette Mathis, Gail Barney, Donna (Charles) Gardner, Donell (Esserene) Mathis, John Mathis, and Ronny Mathis all of Albany, GA, Deborah Mathis of Tallahassee, FL, Lairy (Doretha) Mathis of Webbs, AL, Curtis (Diane) Barney of Mableton, GA, Edward Murry of Lockport, NY, and Cuttes (Cheryl) Mathis of Maxville, FL; aunt and uncle, Ossie Richardson of Charlotte, NC and Johnny Barnes of Miami, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.