Barnett was born on 18 January 1915 in Leeds, Yorkshire to Poland born parents Isaac, a tailor, and Lily nee Lenul and he was one of eight children. In 1939, Barnett was listed on the register living with his parents at 15 Francis Street, Leeds and working as a cabinet maker and a volunteer stretcher bearer.

Details of Barnett’s Army service are unknown to date. He was became a Prisoner of War and died of Beri-Beri disease whilst he was captive.