In Loving Memory of Joseph Rockwell “Rocky” Barnette

June 15, 1979 – October 19, 2026

A Celebration of Life honoring Joseph Rockwell “Rocky” Barnette, of Marfa, Texas, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at Naples Baptist Church, 799 Rugby Drive, Hendersonville, North Carolina 28791.

Rocky was born on June 15, 1979, in Asheville, North Carolina, to Pamela Barnette. He went home to be with the Lord on October 19, 2026, at the age of 47. Rocky was truly one of a kind. He had a big personality, a warm heart, and a sense of humor all his own. He never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel welcome wherever he went. His humor was wonderfully creative, often unexpected, and always his own. He especially loved lifting people's spirits with his quick wit and spontaneous, off-the-cuff comedy. Making others laugh was simply part of who he was. 

Rocky spent his early childhood years at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, with his mother and stepfather before later returning to North Carolina. He attended North Henderson High School, where his artistic talents began to flourish. During those years, Rocky found encouragement and guidance in his mentor and all-time favorite teacher, Mr. Ed Lewis. Recognizing Rocky's artistic ability, Mr. Lewis encouraged him to develop his talents and pursue his creative interests. Rocky went on to win art competitions at the national level while still in high school. His love of art eventually led him toward another creative pursuit: cooking. Rocky continued his education at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, where he earned an associate degree in Culinary Arts. What began as an interest in art and creativity developed into a lifelong passion and a career that would take him far beyond his North Carolina roots. For more than 25 years, Rocky worked in the culinary and fine dining industry. His career took him across the country and around the world, where he met people from all walks of life and enjoyed opportunities he might never have imagined growing up. He led award-winning kitchens, owned and operated restaurants, and authored the cookbook Cooking in Marfa. Among his many memorable experiences were cooking at the White House and, alongside a team of fellow chefs, preparing a meal for Queen Elizabeth. Despite his professional accomplishments, Rocky remained humble and down-to-earth. His family was proud of all he achieved, but he was never one to make a fuss over himself. He enjoyed good company, sharing stories, and making people laugh. And for all his years in fine dining, Rocky still loved coming home to his mother's country-fried steak and potato salad. It remained one of his favorite meals.

Rocky had a deep appreciation for nature and a lifelong love of the mountains. An avid hiker, he especially enjoyed the Appalachian Trail and often spoke fondly of his roots in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. No matter how far his travels took him, he remained proud of where he came from. He also had a special love for animals. Rocky was always willing to help friends care for their pets and happily took on the role of “fur baby sitter” whenever needed. Among his most recent animal friends were Red, Tiny, and Kiki, who brought him much joy.

Rocky was a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, companion, and friend. He was deeply loved by his girlfriend, his family, and the many friends he made throughout his life. As his family, we are proud of the life Rocky built and all that he accomplished. But when we think of him, it isn't the awards, the restaurants, or the places he traveled that we will remember most. It is his laughter, his stories, his love for the mountains, and the way he could make an ordinary moment memorable. Forty-seven years was far too short, and there are many more memories we wish we could have made together. We are grateful for the years we shared with Rocky and for all the laughter and love he brought into our lives. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Rocky is survived by his son, Robert Heim; his mother, Pamela Cook; his stepfather, Rick Youngblood; his brothers, Hezekiah Childers and Matthew Morrison; his sister, Paige Morrison; his girlfriend, Simone Rubi; his uncle, Tim Parker; his niece, Percy Childers; and many loving cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.

Rocky was preceded in death by his father, Joseph R. Morrison; his grandmother, Mary Colleen Barnette; his grandfather, F.G. Barnette; his step-grandparents, Jerry and Joan Youngblood; and his great-grandparents, Lee and Evelyn Barnette.