Only James Barber Jr.

July 2nd, 1944 - August 14th, 2020

Memorial

Mementos

Only James Barber Jr. passed away August 14th, 2020 surrounded by love and family after a 17 year battle with cancer. He was 76 at the time of his death and is survived by his wife, Edith, and three children, Only James III (spouse Patti), Jean (spouse Tyrone), and John (spouse Sonja); 9 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. A Florida native living in Austin Texas, along with his wife Edith, he choose to spend his last few weeks with his daughter's family in Hawaii. James (as most people knew him) passed away at home, peacefully and pain free, choosing to be with family and comfort instead of doctors and hospital rooms. James lived a life full of adventure, dedication, and love. He joined the Air Force in 1962 and was stationed in Bermuda where he met the love of his life. James and Edith spent the next 56 years together, traveling the country (living in 7 different states and driving coast to coast more than once), raising children, and setting the example of what caring and compassionate people can do. James was at times an Airforce Policeman, Industrial Engineer, Plant Manager, VP Engineering, Pop Warner Football Coach, President of the Chamber of Commerce, on the Board for countless school based fundraisers, church volunteer, husband, father, and grandfather. He was a tireless protector, role model, and an occasional instigator if the joke was funny enough. James passed away as he lived, on his terms and he will be sorely missed.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Only’s life with a heartfelt message.

Kat Herrington

James was my first date, but I had my big sister as chaperone because I was only four years old. There's no wonder James and Edith got married, I was not good companionship when I'd fall asleep at the movies all the time.:-) Years later they continued to bring me along, this time to a small Baptist church in Fernandina Beach, Florida. James had the best singing voice I'd ever heard. There, I also heard the truth - God loves us so much, he sent Jesus who died and rose again, so that we can be adopted into God's family. I expect to meet James again in Heaven as brothers and sisters in Christ. That is our family's hope, and we can rest in that confidence. The eternal family reunion is going to be filled with love and laughter!

Published September 6th, 2020

Judy Thiem

James always made me feel part of his family anytime I saw him and always loved sharing his passion of jewelry making with me.

Published August 17th, 2020

John Barber

Published August 16th, 2020

John Barber

From Joanne Forbes ---------------------------------------------- I first met James and Edie through Hill Country Art Gallery in Mtn. Home, AR. I juried in James' wrapped jewelry for a show at the Fair Grounds and later into the Gallery. Both James and Edith were responsible and dependable with their work and work schedule. They were an absolute delight to work with. After the Gallery's closing, we would go to breakfast on a timely basis. Their faith, love of family, and their love for each other was evident. We had both had spaces at local craft shows. James was often seen showing his jewelry to girls, asking them which ones they liked. Then you would see him giving away the chosen ring to the young girl. I observed this happen time and time again. And, he also would give away his jewelry to someone grown that he had judged to be worthy or in need of a boost in their life. I have always believed that he listened to the promptings that he had. He had a loving, sharing heart. If they had stayed in Mtn. Home, I believe that we would still be going to breakfasts and sharing time together and honestly enjoying each others company. God bless you, Edie. I am a better person from knowing the two of you. Joanne Forbes

Published August 25th, 2020

De Deb

Dad became Dad long before digital..when Jean and I were teenagers, Jim was into D&D., and John was following us around (like little brothers do).. He was always there.. He followed his own drum.. And we did as well.. Miss you Dad.. Ps.. Tell Momma and Daddy i said hello.. Love you to the moon and back 😘😭

Published August 16th, 2020