James Edward Barrett

James Edward Barrett, lovingly known as Edward, passed away at his home in Candler on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.  He was born in Buncombe County on August 31, 1956.

Edward led a fulfilling career path as the owner and operator of Ed's Tree & Lawn Service.  He retired from the City of Asheville as a Tree Service Supervisor.  His dedication and hard work were evident throughout his professional journey.  Edward was also a faithful attendee of Woodland Terrace Baptist Church where he found solace and community.

He was preceded in death by his father, J.L. Barrett and his mother, June Singleton Brown; his sister, Terrie Willis; and his half-brother Darryll Barrett.   Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them.

Edward leaves behind a legacy of love and strength to be cherished by his surviving family and friends.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Edna Clark Barrett of Candler.  Edward's memory will be carried on by his two daughters, Christy Sprouse (Greg Bryant) of Canton and Tonya Boydston (Michael) of Weaverville; as well as his son, Jamie Barrett (Debbie) of Candler.

In addition to his immediate family, Edward is survived by two half-sisters, Michelle Bentley of Lincolnton, NC, and Kathy Bailey of Raleigh, NC; two brothers, Michael Barrett of Weaverville and Charles Barrett of Texas; along with two half-brothers, Houston Sullivan of Orlando, Florida and Jimmy Barrett of Lincolnton, NC.

Edward's presence will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Kyle Sprouse and Matthew Barrett; as well as his great-grandchildren Bailey and Alaina Barrett and Malachi Justice.  His impact on their lives will forever be remembered with love and gratitude.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Edward's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 15, 2024 in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Reverend Ben Worley officiating.  Burial will follow at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery in Candler.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024 at Wells Funeral Home in Canton.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC  28731 or American Cancer Society, 154 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC  29615.

The care of Mr. Barrett has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com