Richard Barber, a man of quiet strength and unwavering love, peacefully left this world on July 20, 2023. Born on August 5, 1947, at his childhood home in Polk, Missouri, he lived a life steeped in the values of hard work, compassion, and cherishing the beauty of the land.

Richard's journey began on the family farm, where the scent of freshly cut hay and the gentle lowing of cattle shaped his early years. Those cherished moments on the farm cultivated a deep love for the land and a lifelong passion for farming, hunting, and fishing.

In time, Richard became the proud owner of his own farm, where he tended dairy cows and nurtured multiple hay fields. Amidst the daily demands of farming, he married his first wife Christena and over their twenty-two years of marriage they had four children: Atha, Nathan, Joshua, and Marissa, who brought immeasurable joy to their lives. Despite their young age, Richard invited his children to share in the farm's beauty and let them help where they could. The experience of bottle-feeding baby calves became a treasured family tradition, fostering a connection between father and children that would endure throughout the years.

Though his children were too young to handle the rigors of farm work, he invited them to join him on the tractor, their little hands holding tight to the fender, as he guided them through the seemingly endless fields. With laughter and joy, they would run alongside him, collecting the stray animals seeking refuge in the aftermath of hay cutting. These precious moments created memories that would forever be etched in their hearts.

Richard's love for the land was only surpassed by his love for his family. He cherished every moment he had with them, even amid his tireless efforts to provide for them. His quiet presence held a profound impact, as he led by example, living by the Golden Rule and teaching his children to treat others with kindness and respect.

Throughout his life, Richard's unyielding dedication was evident in both his work at Walmart, where he devoted over a decade of his life, and in his unwavering commitment to his family and farm. His humble and helpful nature endeared him to all who knew him, as he offered a helping hand to anyone in need.

Richard's love extended beyond the fields, creating memories in his family's hearts that will forever be cherished. In moments of adversity, Richard's resilience and courage shone brightly. His children recall a fierce tornado that threatened their safety, and he bravely held them tightly as they sought shelter in their old milk barn. Amid the storm, his love and protection anchored them, ensuring their safety against nature's fury.

Another testament to his strength came when he survived a lightning strike. His rubber boots, charred from the lightning, became a symbol of his resilience, guiding him through life's challenges.

As life brought new chapters, Richard's love expanded to encompass a new family. He found love again with Cindy, and with it came the joy of becoming a stepfather to three more children: Jordan, Justine, and Kiley. Embracing this new role with an open heart over the past eighteen years, he welcomed them into his life, exemplifying the boundless love that defined him.

Richard's legacy is one of love, dedication, and a deep connection with both the land and his family. His lessons extended beyond farming and became a way of life, teaching his family the value of hard work and perseverance. As we gather to celebrate his life and bid him a fond farewell, let us honor his memory by cherishing the values he held dear and the moments we shared together. Though we grieve the loss of his earthly presence, we find comfort in the knowledge that his love and teachings will forever bloom in our hearts.

Richard Ervin Barber is survived by his wife, Cindy Barber, of the home; his four children: Atha (Ben) Schatz of Kansas City, MO, Nathan (Misty) Barber of Gurley AL, Joshua (Lauren) Barber of Olathe KS, Marissa Barber of Springfield, MO; his three step-children: Jordan Fuellner of Republic, MO, Justine Fuellner of Springfield, MO, Kiley Fuellner of Fairplay, MO; his five grandchildren: Emily Schatz, Olivia Barber, Owen Barber, Aiden Hasler, Graham Barber; and his step-grandson: Daniel Berry.

Richard is also survived by two sisters: Mary Lou Robertson and Martha Ann (Ervin) Rader, both of Bolivar, MO; sister-in-law Dixie Barber of Bolivar, MO; sister-in-law Marilyn Barber of Pineville, LA; also many nieces and nephews; and his first wife: Christena Anderson.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Claude & Pearl Barber; four siblings who died as infants; brothers: Forrest (Betty), Benny, & David Barber; brother-in-law: Albert "Tom" Robertson.

Per the wishes of Richard, he will be cremated, and no funeral or visitation services will be held. A memorial to honor his life and the enduring impact he had on all who were fortunate enough to know him can be found here:

https://youtu.be/WGGaF9euGWk

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Bolivar Community Outreach Ministries:

https://www.bolivarcom.org/ways-to-donate

With deepest condolences,

The Barber Family