Robert Lee ‘Bob’ Barbour
January 20, 1936 – August 11, 2022
Robert Lee ‘Bob’ Barbour, 86, of Westfield, IN, formerly of Chesapeake, OH, went to be with Jesus on August 11, 2022, surrounded by his family.
He was born January 20, 1936, in Huntington, WV, to the late James and Inez (Davis) Barbour.
Mr. Barbour grew up in the shadow of the Marshall College campus, playing baseball and tackle football in the neighborhood streets. He graduated from Huntington East High School in 1954 and went on to receive degrees from Moody Bible Institute, Marshall University, and Dallas Theological Seminary.
He taught geography, social studies, and New Testament at Huntington High School for 12 years. Mr. Barbour was a popular teacher. Former students would make a point to stop him in public to express their gratitude for his influence in their lives. He had a long and storied career in ministry. He directed Huntington area Youth for Christ and the Navigators ministry at Marshall University. Mr. Barbour served 17 years as youth and music director, and associate pastor of Seventh Avenue Baptist Church. He served 34 years as Senior Pastor of Union Missionary Baptist Church in Chesapeake, OH.
He was known for his effective teaching, loving care, and attention to those in need. Mr. Barbour was awarded an Outstanding Citizen Proclamation by the Lawrence County (OH) Commission for faithful service to his community.
After moving to Indiana, he was a member of Crossbridge Baptist Church, where he taught Bible classes, visited the sick, and volunteered during Vacation Bible School. He also had a ministry with seniors at Rittenhouse Village. He was a lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Reds.
In spite of all his achievements, Mr. Barbour was most proud of his family. He and his beloved wife of 45 years, Phyllis, ministered, traveled, and enjoyed life together. They were the true definition of companionship. He was a wonderful father to his son, Bobby. He was ever-present at sporting events and music recitals, and in his later years, they spent many hours watching ball games and talking about life and ministry. He loved his daughter-in-law, Jody, and always enjoyed laughing with her. Mr. Barbour adored his grandchildren Jack, Lucy and Annie, who affectionately knew him as “Papa.” He delighted in the hours spent reading and playing with them and took great joy in celebrating their achievements.
A love for people characterized Mr. Barbour’s life, and he made friends wherever he went. He was fondly referred to as the “Mayor” of his Westfield neighborhood.
Survivors include his wife Phyllis; son Bobby; daughter-in-law Jody; three grandchildren Jack, Lucy and Annie; and countless friends.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Barbour was preceded in death by his sister Zeda (Van Sickle); and three brothers, Kelsey, Doug and Ralph.
Family and friends are scheduled to gather at 10 a.m., on August 20 2022 in Crossbridge Baptist Church, 4309 W. 79th St. Indianapolis, where the funeral service is scheduled to begin at 12 p.m.
Burial will follow in Hamilton Memorial Park in Noblesville.
Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.