of Jonesboro, AR

September 23, 1937 - January 14, 2019

Rethel Barber, of Jonesboro, went to his heavenly home on January 14, 2019 at the age of 81. He was a resident of St. Elizabeth's Nursing Home and was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Village Creek. Mr. Barber was a veteran of the United States Army, a friend to many, but most importantly, he was a Dad and Papa. Mr. Barber was an avid fisherman and loved to coon hunt. He told many stories and jokes, and found enjoyment in sharing his love of all of God's creations with those around him. His brain teasers and anecdotes such as "It takes a mighty big grasshopper to eat a bale of hay", were part of his jovial personality.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jeff and Hattie Barber; siblings, J. W. Prater and Betty Lea.

Survivors include, sons, Dr. Jeff Barber and wife Debra, Justin Barber all of Jonesboro; daughter, Jennifer Cook and husband Bryan of Wooster; six granddaughters, Jenni, Keighley, Lindsey, Emily, Lauren and Anna Barber; three grandsons, Andrew, Austin and Adam Cook; brothers, Roy and Wallace Barber of Jonesboro; sister, Gina Riccio of St. Louis, MO; two special friends, Billy Guy Douglas and John Lewis of Wynne.

A celebration of life will be Sunday, January 20, 2019 at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home at 2:00 pm, with Charles Smith and Tony Berry officiating. Honorary Pallbearers will be, Billy Douglas, John Lewis, Keith Price, Bob Bethel, Eddie Harris, John Ramsey and Jason Inks.

Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 pm.

A private burial will be held at the VA Cemetery in Birdeye at a later date.

For a lasting memorial, please consider, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or Soaring Wings Ranch, PO Box 1670, Conway, AR. 72033.

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