Edward Barber

Ed Barber, 98, of Lee's Summit, MO, passed away peacefully at Jefferson Healthcare Nursing Facility on January 17, 2025, at 12:15 a.m.

Born at home in Greeley, Kansas to Eula Mae Edwards Barber and Clarence C. Barber, Ed arrived with a healthy start to this world in a bedroom that straddled two counties - Anderson and Franklin. Weighing 12 pounds and measuring 27 inches at birth, it was jokingly said he was out milking the cows the week after he was born.

From a young age, Ed embodied a relentless work ethic. By age 11, he was earning 10 cents an hour helping neighbors with chores and plumbing, and by 13, he was up at 4:30 a.m. delivering newspapers for the Kansas City Star. His career included working at a dairy for nine years, herding cattle on a ranch in Waverly, MO, and holding jobs in a steel foundry, a wood factory, and maintenance at Lonestar Lake in Lawrence, Kansas.

Ed's first marriage brought him his son, Allen. While living in the Kansas City and Raytown area, Ed worked in a cabinet shop, a rug-cleaning plant, and eventually discovered his love for woodworking. Later, he met his second wife, Delores, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years. Through Delores' children, he gained two stepchildren and a beloved grandson and granddaughter, whom he loved as his own.

Ed's professional journey also included construction work, pouring concrete for Smith Bros. Concrete Co. for 17 years. His final role, before retiring in 1988, was as custodian at Eastwood Hills Elementary in Raytown, MO. Ed was known for his dedication, achieving perfect attendance during his time at the school, missing only one day of work throughout his entire tenure. Far from being just a custodian, he became a cherished member of the school community, known for his humor, pranks, and kindness toward staff and students.

Beyond his work, Ed was an incredibly generous man. He loved sharing the fruits of his labor, whether it was the woodworking projects he meticulously crafted, baked goods he lovingly prepared, or fresh produce from his garden. His desire to give extended to those around him, and he found great joy in making others smile through the things he made.

Ed also had a great love for word searches and excelled at solving them. He often spent hours pouring over the intricate puzzles, finding relaxation and joy in the challenge. His skill and enthusiasm for word searches became yet another facet of his remarkable personality.

Ed defied the odds after suffering a stroke in the early 2000's. Doctors told him he wouldn't walk again, let alone live independently, but he proved them wrong. Every year on the anniversary of the stroke, Ed would reminisce about how much he had overcome, a testament to his resilience and determination.

One of Ed's fondest memories was when the neighbor girl, who grew close to him, asked if she could call him "Grandpa". This simple gesture touched Ed deeply, and he would often tell that story throughout his life. It was moments like these that made him feel truly valued and connected to those around him.

Ed's life experiences made him an storyteller. He loved recounting the many adventures and lessons from his journey, always with a humorous twist and a sense of wonder. His stories became a cherished part of his legacy, leaving an indelible mark on those who heard them.

Throughout his life, Ed never smoked or drank. His focus remained on living with integrity, hard work, and the desire to make the world a better place for those around him. Ed also dedicated many years to leading a Boy Scout troop, known for its adventurous hiking treks across the state. His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He made them feel incredibly important and would light up whenever he spoke about them or spent time in their company. His warmth and pride in his family were evident in the way he cherished every moment with them and celebrated their presence in his life.

Ed will be remembered for his humor, generosity, kindness, resilience, and the profound impact he had on everyone who knew him.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, his son Allen Barber, his wife Delores Farr Barber, his grandson Jason Major, his stepchildren Rhonda Major and Randy Major, and his brother Doyle Barber. He also recently lost his longtime friend, Carl Repper, who served alongside him in Scouts.

He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Major of Lee's Summit, MO; his granddaughter, Jessie Frederick of Overland Park, KS, along with her husband, Michael and their children, Aria and Eisley. He is also survived by his "adopted" family, "daughter", Gail Trudeau and his "granddaughter", Chelsea Wilton, of Raytown, MO; Donna and Greg Gomerdinger of Raytown; "Lovebug" Kyla Parks; and a multitude of friends who loved and cared deeply for him.