Henry Armstead Barber was born on September 9, 1949, to Harvey Barber, Sr. and Ada Dandridge Barber in Richmond County, Virginia. On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 76, he peacefully transitioned from labor to reward at VCU Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, surrounded by his loving family.
Henry accepted Christ at an early age and became a dedicated life-long member of the Clarksville Baptist Church. There he devoted himself to serving in various church ministries which included Trustee, Men’s Fellowship, Men’s Choir, Mass Choir and Usher Board.
Henry was educated in the Richmond County Public Schools, graduating from Richmond County High School in 1967. In 1969, he was drafted into the United States Army where he selflessly served his country as a combat soldier in the Vietnam War. He was also a member of the Richmond County Masonic Lodge and American Legion.
Henry was known for his strong work ethic. After proudly serving in the United States Army and receiving an honorable discharge, he went on to work in several places, including Frito-Lay, White Packing Company, National Air and Space Museum, and Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, VA, where he retired in January 2008. He later continued his career with UIC/Bowhead, retiring once more on September 9, 2025.
On September 13, 1969, Henry was joined in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Esther Darlene Dixon. To this union one son, Terrence, was born. He was a loving and kind-hearted husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. He also enjoyed both domestic and international travel, with Hawaii, Aruba and South Africa being some of his favorite destinations.
Henry loved the youth and always enjoyed encouraging them with small monetary awards for their academic achievements and birthdays.
Those who knew Henry remember him for his generosity, great sense of humor, skills on the grill and reputation as a diehard Washington Redskins/Commanders fan. His casual attire always included something burgundy and gold with his favorite football team logo.
Henry was preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Ada Barber, sisters Mamie King and Lucy Barber, brother Harvey Barber, Jr., nephew Rodney Barber and niece Latosha King.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 56 years, Esther Darlene Barber; son Terrence Barber, Sr.; grandson Terrence Barber, Jr.; granddaughter Taylor Barber; siblings John “Butch” Barber (Flossie), Sarah Mosley, and James “Cool” Barber (Linda); foster brother Bernard Johnson (Helen); mother-in-law Martha Dixon; sisters-in-law Shirley Barber, Josie Marie Clark (James), Doris Veney (Charles), Vera Carey (Carlton); goddaughter Ortese Parker, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He will be greatly missed, but precious memories will forever linger in our hearts.
A Service of Triumph will be held on Tuesday, October 21 at 12 Noon in the sanctuary of the Clarksville Baptist Church, Warsaw, Virginia.
The interment will follow in the Church Cemetery.
Remains may be viewed from 4PM until 6PM on Monday, October 20 in the chapel of the WELDON-FISHER FUNERAL HOME and from 11AM until service time on Tuesday, October 21 at Clarksville Baptist Church.
Services will be live streamed via facebook on the weldonfisherfuneralhome page by B&B Media LLC. (Mark Bunns)
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