The sound of saws slicing through century-old timber. The clang of hammers against worn iron nails. The laughter of a close-knit crew working under the open sky. Barnwood Builders isn’t just a television show—it’s a story of heart, craftsmanship, and history. But over the years, as the popular DIY Network series continues to transform forgotten barns into timeless homes, fans have been haunted by a lingering question: who died on Barnwood Builders?
It’s a rumor that won’t seem to go away. Whispers online have suggested tragedy within the beloved cast, leaving viewers wondering about the fates of familiar faces who suddenly disappeared from the screen. But is there any truth to these claims? Or are they simply another case of internet confusion spiraling out of control?
Let’s separate fact from fiction and take a deeper look at the lives of the Barnwood Builders cast—past and present.
A Legacy of Building and Brotherhood
Since its debut in 2013, Barnwood Builders has captivated audiences by preserving a slice of American heritage. Led by the charismatic Mark Bowe, the show follows a team of skilled West Virginia craftsmen who deconstruct old barns and cabins, breathing new life into forgotten structures. What makes the show truly special is the bond between its cast—humble, hardworking men with big personalities and even bigger hearts.
Over the years, the show introduced us to familiar faces like Sherman Thompson, Johnny Jett, Tim Rose, Graham Ferguson, and more. But as the seasons rolled on, fans noticed that some members were no longer part of the team. That’s when the rumors began.
The Truth About Brian Buckner
One of the earliest departures that sparked concern was Brian Buckner. He was part of the original crew during the first two seasons, known for his dry humor and easygoing nature. Fans adored the dynamic between Brian and Mark, but without warning, Brian vanished from the series.
In 2020, confusion escalated when an obituary for someone named Brian Buckner began circulating online. Fans feared the worst, believing the Barnwood Builders star had passed away. But Brian himself soon addressed the rumors with good-natured sarcasm. “Social media is so weird,” he laughed in a YouTube video. “Apparently, if you stop being on TV, you’re automatically dead.”
In reality, Brian left the show due to personal reasons, including anxiety and moving away from the filming location. He remains alive and well, and even expressed how much he still loves and respects his former castmates.
Johnny Jett: Victim of Online Confusion
Another longtime crew member wrapped in death rumors is Johnny Jett. Johnny, known for his masterful handling of heavy machinery and quiet wit, has been on Barnwood Builders since day one. Yet, just like Brian, fans feared he had died after another obituary surfaced for someone with the same name.
This time, the deceased was a 62-year-old man from Houston, Texas—not the beloved craftsman from the show. Unfortunately, Johnny’s absence from social media only fanned the flames of speculation.

Barnwood Builders Cast Jonhhy Jet
But rest assured—Johnny Jett is very much alive. Born in 1949, he’s now 75 and still actively working with the Barnwood Builders team. His dedication and skill remain a vital part of the show’s success.
What Happened to Tim Rose?
Tim Rose was a fan favorite for many seasons, appearing from season one through season twelve. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and deep knowledge of restoration, Tim quietly exited the show without much public explanation.
He hasn’t shared much about his departure, and he keeps a low profile online, making it difficult to pinpoint what he’s up to these days. However, there’s no indication that Tim passed away—just that he chose to step away from the camera.
Sherman Thompson and the Core Crew
Sherman Thompson remains a cornerstone of Barnwood Builders. Since season one, he’s worked beside Mark and the rest of the team, helping dismantle and restore historical structures with precision and care. Outside the show, Sherman enjoys life on his farm with his wife Roma and their two daughters. He has never been the subject of death rumors—thankfully, he’s still very much an active and valued member of the team.
The Truth About Other Cast Members
Other names that have come and gone include Alex Webb, Travis Ferguson, Teeshawn McKoy, and Ryan Franklin. While some have left the series, none have been reported deceased. Most simply moved on to pursue other personal or professional goals.
It’s worth noting that Johnny Jett and his wife Donna did suffer a family tragedy in 2017—their son, Johnny Gene Jett, passed away at age 44. This painful loss may have also contributed to some of the confusion surrounding Johnny’s status.
So, Who Died on Barnwood Builders?
Here’s the truth: no core cast member of Barnwood Builders has died. The rumors floating around online are largely the result of mistaken identity and misinformation. While some beloved faces have left the show, they’re alive and pursuing life beyond reality television.
What remains is the spirit of Barnwood Builders—a show built not just on wood and nails, but on legacy, family, and enduring friendship. As the crew continues salvaging the past to build the future, fans can rest easy knowing that their favorite builders are still hard at work… and still very much alive.
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