Larry Wayne Barber
Larry Wayne Barber of Bridgewater, VA, passed away on July 20, 2024 after a massive heart attack.
Larry was born on September 16, 1949 to Albert and Beulah Barber in Crumpler, WV. After Larry graduated from Northfork High School in Northfork, WV, in 1967, he went to Concord College in Athens WV.
In 1967, Larry met Donna Watts in Bluefield, WV. They married in 1971 and went on to have two children, Thomas (Kirstine) and Catherine (Branden).
After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Library Science, he started his first job as a school librarian at Valley Elementary School in Bath County, VA, that kickstarted a 42 year career in education. He received a Master's degree in Library Science/Audio Visual Education and later a certification in School Administration. In 1974, he moved to Rockingham County and became a librarian at Turner Ashby High School for 14 years. He spent many other years in Rockingham County where he served as an Assistant Principal at Broadway High School, Assistant Principal at Plains Elementary School, Principal at Keezletown Elementary School, and Principal at Pleasant Valley Elementary School. His last 10 years in education were spent in Staunton City Schools. He was an Assistant Principal at then Lee High School, Principal at Ware Elementary School and several jobs in the central office. During his entire career, his focus was to support his teachers, love his students and work to provide best practice for both.
In addition to his educational work, he also distributed wine for Veritas Vineyard in Afton, VA. He gained knowledge about good wine and made many lasting friendships that continued through the years.
Larry was an active member of Trinity Presbyterian Church for 50 years. He loved serving on the session, being a Sunday School teacher, liturgist and participant in many outreach groups. His desire to serve the community led him to work with Habitat For Humanity, Open Doors and North River Library.
His pride and joy are his grandchildren: Braxton Barber, Mason Barber, Iris Wells and Porter Wells. His love for his family was deep and unconditional and his grandchildren brought immeasurable joy in his heart. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, a sister, Linda Walker, cousins, nieces and nephews too numerous to mention.
Visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service in Bridgewater, VA on August 7, 2024, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. The memorial service will be held on August 8, 2024, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Harrisonburg, VA at 6:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Open Doors, Harrisonburg, VA or "Friends of North River Library" c/o of North River Library, Bridgewater, VA, both organizations Larry felt strongly about.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.
