Joe Barber

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, November 16, 2026 at Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia for Joe Barber, 79, of Columbia, who passed away Thursday, November 12, 2026. Rev. Mike Everett will officiate the service. Bro. Chris Turnage will provide special music.

The Barber family will receive guests on Monday morning from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia.

Joe spent more than fifty years working in the automotive industry. He owned and operated Joe's Auto Parts in Columbia and later Joe's Muffler Shop. In recent years, he enjoyed retirement while continuing to work part-time at Carquest. Joe had a lifelong interest in automobiles and enjoyed attending car shows and being involved in a local car club. He was always working on another vehicle restoration project, often finding ways to invest a little extra money into his latest project. He took pride in his work and could frequently be seen wearing one of his work shirts, especially his favorite Carquest polo, even when going out to eat.

Joe was a man who liked to stay busy. He enjoyed gardening, working in his yard, and always having something to do. He was an avid sports fan, especially of the Atlanta Braves, and enjoyed watching *Wheel of Fortune*, particularly his favorite, Vanna White. When he had the opportunity to travel, the mountains were his favorite destination.

Joe also enjoyed cooking for his family, especially preparing Sunday dinners, and spending time with his grandchildren. He had a special place in his heart for his beloved dog, Sassy, who was his constant companion and the apple of his eye.

He was preceded in death by his Parents, Bobby and Margaret Carter Barber; one Sister, Janice Everett; and one Brother-in-law, David Morgan.

He is survived by his Wife of sixty years, Sue Barber, of Columbia; two Sons, Mike Barber (Kim), of Columbia, David Barber (Trayce), of Biloxi; two Brothers, Gary Barber (Joy), of Columbia, Keith Barber (Janet), of Hurricane Creek; four Sisters, Joan Forbes (Forbes), of Hurricane Creek, Joyce Morgan, of Foxworth, Brenda Goar (Royce), of Columbia, Bobbie Lynn Carney (Ricky), of Columbia; four Grandchildren, Chance Barber, of Hattiesburg, Madison McCain (Seth), of Columbia, Jordan Barber (Lela), of Columbia, Kendall Welch (Cole), of Foxworth; two Great Grandchildren, Millie Michael Welch, of Foxworth, Merritt Holmes Welch, of Foxworth.

Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia is in charge of the arrangements. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.