Kenneth "Ken" Lacoy Barber

Kenneth Lacoy Barber, 68 years old, passed away on October 23, 2024 after a courageous 4 1/2 year battle with cancer. He was born in Athens, Georgia to the late Alvin Lacoy Barber and Bessie Louise Tate on February 16, 2024. His siblings, Donna Barber and Calvin (Deena) Barber mourn the loss of their big brother. He is survived by his wife, Gwen Westbrook Barber; his son, Cody (Hillary) Barber; step-daughter, Amber (Lester) Elder; and, step-daughter, Emily (Ty) Wheeler. The sparkles in Kenneth’s eyes belonged to the grandchildren who brought him such immense joy, love, and laughter: Naomi Barber; Jonathan and Emma Elder; and, Rhett, Hoke, Hud, and Lon Wheeler. He also has a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and the dearest friends/coworkers from childhood and work. 

Kenneth’s journey touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of fairness, strength and resilience. His unwavering spirit in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a special man who never complained and who looked for the good in everything and everyone. We wish to acknowledge the love and care given to Kenneth during his journey with Emory’s WINSHIP Cancer Center (especially, Dr. O. Alese and Sujata Kane, PA) and St. Mary’s Hospice (Nurses Linda, Amber, Kim, and the entire support team).

Kenneth’s memory will forever be held dear to our hearts. He will be remembered for his unwavering love, kindness, compassion, work ethic, open-mindedness, ability to think outside the box, dedication to family, and his love for University of Georgia Football and the Atlanta Braves. He cherished his coworker relationships at Indorama and missed them terribly for 4 1/2 years. He imparted a positive impact on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

The Celebration of Kenneth Lacoy Barber’s Life to honor and remember him will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024 from 1-3 pm at the North High Shoals Community Center. Please RSVP with family for memorial attendance. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Cancer Research, American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.com) in honor of Kenneth.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, East, Athens, GA is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com