The gravestone epitaph:

Here rests in hope ye body of Col James Barrett who departed this life April 11th, 1779 in the 69th year of his (age).

Sudden the summons came, and quick the flight! We trust to be with Christ in realms of light.

In public and privet life he was courteous benevolent & charitable.  His fidelity, uprightness and ability in various offices and employments justly procured him esteem.  For many years he represented his Town in General Court.  He early stept  forward in ye contest with Britan and destinguished himself in ye cause of America.  His warm attachment to and careful practice of ye religion of Christ compleated his worthy character and with his other virtues will preserve his memory and rank it with that of the blessed.

O reader from the pale monument learn

Wisdom for Eternity, wisdom for thyself; and be reminded of thy fate,

which hastens on the swiftest wings of time!

Death steals upon you like a midnight thief!