Barber

Arthur Barber Jr., 78, of Benld, Ill., died at his son's residence in Gillespie on Friday, March 11, 2022. Born Dec. 31, 1943, in Cass County, he was a son of the late Arthur Sr. and Mary (Large) Barber. He married Debrah Main on July 10, 1967, and she survives.

Art was retired from the U.S. Navy and served two tours in the Vietnam War. He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Gillespie; a member of the Mt. Olive VFW Post #5790; and a member of the Mt. Nebo Masonic Lodge #76 AF & AM.

He is survived by his wife, Debrah Barber of Benld; two sons, Andrew (Melinda) Barber of Gillespie, Timothy (Sara) Barber of Sawyerville; eight grandchildren, Dakotah (Emily), Morgan, Abigail, Mason (Kendra), Connor, Katy, John Allen, and Shawne Copeland; and one brother, Richard Barber. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Cindy Westbrook, Barbara Mills, Mary Roberts; and four brothers, David, Michael, Ronald, and Ricky Barber.

Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, at First United Methodist Church in Gillespie. A Memorial service will follow at the church at 6 p.m. with Rev. Larry Moreau officiating. Private burial will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis.

Memorials are suggested to Mission 22. Condolences may be left online at http://www.williamsonfh.com. Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton is in charge of arrangements.