Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Brushy Creek Baptist Church in Columbia for Rev. Douglas William Barber, 78, of Columbia, who passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at his residence. Interment will be at Brushy Creek Cemetery (New) in Columbia. Bro. Steve Ellis, Bro. Reece Douglas, Jr., and Bro. Don Jacobs will officiate the services. Nathan Simmons, Joni Simmons, and Audi Simmons will provide special music. Visitation will be held from 11:30 am until 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Brushy Creek Baptist Church.

Rev. Douglas Barber was a steadfast pillar of faith who dedicated an impressive 53 years to the gospel ministry, leaving an indelible mark on every congregation he served. His pastoral journey primarily spanned the communities of Texas and Mississippi, where he was known not just for his spiritual leadership, but for his genuine connection to the people in his care. Outside of the pulpit, Douglas found immense joy in the quiet beauty of God's creation, often spending his free time fishing or capturing life's fleeting moments through the lens of his photography. A man of many talents, he possessed a soulful passion for singing that resonated with his deep love for worship. Above all else, he was a devoted family man whose greatest legacy remains the profound love and guidance he provided to those closest to him.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Pearl Barber; Mother, Dorothy Sanders Barber; four Brothers, Reggie Barber, Harry "H L" Barber, Eugene Barber and Donnie Barber; Sister, Lynda McRaney.

He is survived by his Wife, of 61 years, Marilyn Randall Barber of Columbia, MS;  three Sons, Jeffrey Barber (Tamaca) of Columbia, MS, Raymond Barber (Lori) of Columbia, MS and Jonathan Barber of Columbia, MS;  three Daughters, Lisa Martin (Jim) of Seminary, MS, June Pierce (Tony) of Bay St. Louis, MS and Joni Simmons (Nathan) of Columbia, MS;  Brother, Thomas Robert Barber (Peggy);  two Sisters, Diane Bennett (Larry), LaDonna King;  15 Grandchildren;  27 Great Grandchildren;  A host of nephews, nieces, and friends;  three Sister-In-Laws, Jannette Barber, Theresia Barber and Theresia "Resi" Barber;  Special Friend, Joe  Donald Cook.

Pallbearers will be Tim Barber, John Barber, Willie Barber, Jimmy Barber, Charlie Barber, and Robert Barber. Honorary pallbearers will be Joe Donald Cook, Noah Dement Sr., and All Ministers in attendance.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com