James Franklin "Jamie" Barber was born on January 22, 1975, to James Elmer Barber and Frankie Elayne Godwin, in Longview, Texas.

Jamie was preceded in death by his parents, James and Frankie, and by his grandparents, Frank and Dorothy Godwin.

Jamie is survived by his daughter, Caitlin Barber; granddaughters, Lillie and Maggie Nappier, and grandson, Lane Walker; aunts, Serita Threadgill and husband Robert, Sarah Tyler, Janice Godwin Baetz, and Annette Stracener; uncle, Don Mosley, and numerous cousins, friends, and a special lifelong friend, Ronica Jester and her sons, Riley and Rodey Jester.

During his life Jamie lived in several different states and different areas of Texas, but he always called the piney woods of East Texas home.

Jamie loved the outdoors and anything that could be done outside. Fishing, hunting, yard work and gardening. He loved working with his hands most of all. Jamie was a skilled carpenter by trade and loved building and creating different things. His boss, David, was quoted saying "Jamie was a hard worker when you got him going."

One of Jamie's proudest moments was when he was younger and had to memorize a bible verse for vacation bible school. He was so proud that he had the verse memorized on he very first day. That verse is John 11:35, "Jesus Wept." The shortest verse in the bible.

Jamie your story didn't end with your final breath. Your story remains and your memory remains. As long as there is someone who still speaks your name and someone who still loves you...a part of you will always be here. Jamie you will forever be carried in the hearts of those who love you.

There will be a Memorial Service on Saturday, September 26, 2026, in the Chapel of Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer at 1:00 p.m.