Gladys Barber
Gladys Barber, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2023, in Sullivan, MO. Born on April 20, 1932, in Earle, Arkansas, to Lige A. and Hassie N. (Brantley) Melton.
Gladys’ mother passed away when she was just three years old. Her step- mother, Velva Melton raised her as her own. She loved and nurtured Gladys along with all the other children. Gladys always said she couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful mother. Gladys was united in marriage to Jesse Barber on May 9, 1948 in Palestine, Arkansas at the age of 16. They celebrated 56 years of marriage before Jesse passed.
Throughout her life, Gladys was a hardworking woman, holding various jobs at the International Shoe Company, P.N. Hersh, I.G.A., Central Market, and Ramsey Corporation. Her creativity shone through in her work as an excellent seamstress, making clothing and mending for many folks in town. She took great pride in her work, even creating wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and suits for her sons. Her talent and dedication were evident in every stitch.
Gladys was a woman of faith and a long-time, faithful member of the First Assembly of God in Sullivan. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength and guidance throughout her years. She was a familiar and cherished presence in the church community, and her absence will be deeply felt.
In her personal life, Gladys was known for her love of driving. She enjoyed going on trips to visit her family, a joy that she deeply missed when her eyesight failed. Despite this setback, Gladys remained positive and courageous, embodying the spirit of resilience that defined her life.
Gladys is survived by her two sons, Larry Barber and Ken Barber and wife Joan, all of Sullivan, MO. She was a proud grandmother to Bryce Barber of Union, MO. She also leaves behind two brothers, Robert Melton and Rayburn Melton, both of Forrest City, Arkansas, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will miss her dearly.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, Lige and Hassie Melton; her husband, Jesse Barber; her step-mother, Velva Melton; daughter, Shirley McClary, one brother, Wayne Melton, and two sisters, Mary Davenport and Martha Kidwell.
Gladys Maxine Barber will be remembered as a woman of strength, creativity, and courage. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were touched by her kindness and generosity. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of her loved ones.
Visitation was held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, MO.
Funeral services were conducted at 12:00 pm, Wednesday, at the Eaton Funeral Home with Pastor Kyle Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in Oddfellows Memorial Cemetery, Sullivan, MO.
Friends may send online condolences to the Barber family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, MO.