COLUMBUS
Norman Perry Barr, 80, of Columbus, departed from his earthly home on Wednesday, July 26th. Norman grew up in Newbern, the youngest of seven siblings. He was born October 1, 1936, to the late Nettie May and Orvey Perry Barr.
Norman will be missed for his smile, hard work ethic, kindness, and twinkling blue eyes. He was always ready to lend a hand when needed; enjoyed golfing with family and friends; reading and continually learning; and supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all of their passions. He grew up farming; graduated from Columbus High School; attended Lincoln Christian College for two years; joined the Army and served in Germany in the area of security and communications; and then worked with the Columbus Police Department for 39 years as a police officer, juvenile officer, detective, sergeant, and in the traffic division. In the community Norman spent time as a school crossing guard; worked security for Columbus Parks and Recreation; served as a school board member at Columbus Christian School; and was a long-time member and elder at East Columbus Christian Church.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Mary Belle (Poole) Barr; son, Eddie (Vicki) Barr; daughter, Janice (Bryan) Langford, brother, Kenneth; numerous nephews and nieces; five grandchildren, Kim Johnson, Ben Wever, Nathan and Matthew Barr, and Kyle Langford; and four great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Norman was preceded in death by his siblings, Ruth, Allen, Mildred Irene (Sis), Lester, and Alvin; daughter, Becky; and grandson, Justin Langford.
Friends and family are invited to gather and share stories at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Home, 3855 25th Street, for visitation Sunday, July 30th from 2-6 p.m. or Monday, July 31st at 9 a.m. before the funeral services at 10 a.m. The Columbus Police Department Honor Guard will be present. Burial services will be held at Garland Brook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East Columbus Christian Church or Columbus Christian School, 3170 Indiana Avenue, Columbus, 47201.
