BARNETT JR., David “Spike”

David (Spike) Barnett Jr., 48 of Tampa, Florida, passed away suddenly on May 7, 2025.  Born on November 23, 1976, in Memphis, TN, Spike was a devoted husband, son, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend to many.  He married Suzi Barnett in 2016, and together they built a life full of love and adventures, centered on family and friends.

Spike was preceded in death by his grandparents, Albert/Candy Fonseca, of Tampa, FL, Otis/Doris Barnett of Senatobia, MS, his granddaughter Aliyana Cassuilis of Melbourne, FL, and his cousin Kristy Barnett Hill of Hernando, MS.

Spike is survived by his beloved wife Suzi Barnett of Tampa, FL of 9 years and their five children Erin/James Raymond of North Layton, UT, Katie Mitchell, Springhill, FL, Holly Hildrith, Tanner (TJ) Barnett, Marissa Barnett all of Tampa, FL, his mother Rosalie (Joyce) Williams of Tampa, FL, his father David Sr/Pat Barnett of Humboldt, TN, his sister Katrina/Jason Schwertfager and his nieces Ella Schwertfager and Haylee Schwertfager all of Lewis Center, OH, grandchildren Avery & Ayden Floyd of Springhill, Fl,  Alexander & Quinn Raymond of North Layton, UT and many cousins and friends.

Spike was known for his bigger than life personality, his love of all sports, especially Tampa Sports.  Spike always had a close-knit group of friends from childhood through adulthood.  If you knew him, you couldn’t help but love him.  Spike loved a good party, and anytime he could dress up, whether that be for a theme or a night out, he was all in.  One of Spike’s most precious joys outside of his family/friends was Sophie (his Pug baby girl).  Wherever you saw Spike in the house, Sophie was always right by his side.

Spike quickly found his career niche as a leader in the customer service industry, whether that be call centers or, most recently, the insurance industry. Throughout his career path, many have spoken highly of him, saying he was a leader, an encourager, and a standout kind of guy with his big voice yet easy to talk with on many subjects.

Spike will be missed by so many.  His name will be forever spoken, and his memory will continue to live through and with everyone he touched.

Catholic Mass will be held on June 9, 2025, at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Catholic, 12708 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL. The celebration of life will immediately follow; location details will be shared via social media and at the church. The family is dedicating his celebration of life to the color purple in their attire (which was his favorite). They encourage anyone who would like to share in wearing this color in support and dedication to Spike’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Spike’s name to Derrick Brooks Charities, https://db55.org/, or in person at his memorial, where a family box will be available.