Dennis Wayne Barsness, 78, of Livingston, Tennessee, passed away peacefully Monday, September 29, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. Born on November 2, 1946, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Dennis was the beloved fourth son of Kermit and Miriam Barsness.

From an early age, Dennis carried with him a steady faith and strong sense of duty that guided his life. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War before pursuing higher education at Tennessee Tech University, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Special Education.

On April 12, 1968, Dennis married the love of his life, Jene. From the moment they met, it was “love at first sight,” and their bond blossomed into a marriage of more than five decades—filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering support.

Dennis devoted nearly 30 years of his career to the Overton County School System, serving in roles at Pleasant Valley Elementary, Hardy’s Chapel Elementary, Rickman High School, Livingston Academy, and Hilham Elementary. He later retired as the Director of Maintenance for the entire district, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to education and community service. After retirement, he returned to Livingston Limestone Company, where his career in Tennessee first began.

A proud Freemason (Livingston Lodge #259) and former Jaycee, Dennis lived a life of fellowship and service. Though raised in the Lutheran faith, in his later years he cherished the friendship and spiritual guidance of Pastor James Shanko of Livingston Christian Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Conrad Barsness; his adored in-laws, Harry and Ina Mary Gunnels; and his beloved nephew, Jeremiah Maynard.

Dennis leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Jene (Gunnels) Barsness; two daughters, Jordan Barsness of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Bethany (Steve) Strickland of Blackshear, Georgia; and his four treasured grandchildren, Bennett, Ryan, Campbell, and Beau Strickland. Known lovingly as “Papa,” he found his greatest joy in supporting his grandchildren—cheering them on in soccer, basketball, golf, and football. He rarely missed a Pierce County High School game, whether in the stands or watching faithfully online. His favorite tradition was Saturday morning donut runs with his grandkids, moments that reflected his deep love for family and the simple joys of life.

Beyond his devotion to family, Dennis loved the water and found peace at the beach or Dale Hollow Lake. He appreciated life’s great pleasures—a good round of golf with his boys, Tennessee football, two fingers of bourbon, and time spent with his lifelong friends and the Red Shed Gang: Ron Moore, Harry Starnes, and Gerald Maynard. Together they shared countless stories, laughter, and memories that spanned a lifetime. Dennis truly was the coolest handyman around: always fixing things and making sure the yard, house, and everything in between was in good working order. This “get it done” mentality once led his youngest grandson Beau to say: “if Papa can’t fix it, we are all screwed!”

A memorial service will be held Monday, October 6, 2025, at Livingston Methodist Church at 3pm with the family receiving friends prior from 1-3pm.A Masonic service will start at 3 leading into the funeral service. Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Jonathan Maynard, Andy Gunnels, Alex Gunnels, Aeric Gunnels, Brandon Gunnels, Joshua Gunnels, Sam Officer, & Cade Pritchett. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Dennis Barsness Memorial Scholarship through The Overton County Educational Foundation: 2632 Bradford Hicks Drive, Livingston, TN 38570

Dennis lived a life marked by service, love, and strong opinions.  His strength, steadfast loyalty, and nonsense spirit left a mark on everyone he met. His legacy will live on in the lives of his family, his community, and all who had the pleasure & privilege of knowing him.

Special care provided by Speck Funeral Home