Jean Barnett Wirt

Jean Barnett Wirt died December 26, 2020 after a hard-fought battle against cancer. She passed away with her family in a new home she recently picked out in Johnston, Iowa.

Jean was a sassy, long-legged, blond bombshell who had big hair, big purses and an even bigger heart. She loved to laugh, wear impossibly high heels and have a good time. Jean was a movie buff. She enjoyed going to the theater alone (usually smuggling some tacos or hamburgers in her purse) and spending an afternoon with her favorite Hollywood men. Jean was a larger-than-life personality who loved her family fiercely and never gave up on those she loved.

Born June 24, 1951 and raised in Linden, Iowa, Jean was the youngest daughter of Gaylord “Gay” and Elaine Barnett. She graduated from Panora-Linden High School in 1969, and left for an adventurous life in Texas raising her daughters. Moving back home to Iowa she reunited with a high school classmate, Doug Wirt. Jean worked as a medical receptionist in Des Moines for many years. Most recently, she and Doug worked hard to create a loving home for their adopted daughter, Marla. Although her life was not always easy, Jean kept on going. She would put on her lipstick, a big smile, and take on another day.

She is survived by her husband, Doug Wirt; daughters, Paulette Sale of Murfreesboro, TN, Stacey Worthey of Des Moines, and Marla Wirt of Johnston; her sister, Ann Canady of Des Moines; brothers, Jim (Brenda) Barnett of Des Moines, Jeff Barnett of Waukee, and Larry (Bill Jackson) Barnett of Ankeny; grandchildren, Dustin Sale, Kate Sale, Jacob Gooden, Jesse Gardner and Libby Gardner; and many nieces, nephews and cousins who will miss her tremendously. Jean was preceded in death by her parents.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held Friday, June 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Until then, you can honor Jean by playing an Eagles song, staying for one more drink, and hugging tightly those you love. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

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