Freddie Alan Barr

Freddie Alan ‘Fred’ Barr, age 74, passed away Thursday, October 7, 2021 at his home in Conway, AR. He was born at his childhood home on September 5, 1947 in Waynesville, MO, the son of the late James Warney Barr and Nina Fern (Coleman) Barr.

In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by four brothers: John, Eldon, Eugene and Ralph Barr; his son James’ mother, Patricia; and a granddaughter Jennifer Baker Duff.

Fred will be greatly missed by his surviving family which includes his wife of 49 years, Carol, of the home; five sons, James (Shelley) Barr of Greenbrier, AR; Chris (Mindy) Barr of Naylor, AR; Richard (Stacy) Smith of Joplin, MO; Mike Smith of Conway, AR; and Nick Smith of Joplin, MO. Grandchildren are Kyle Richardson, Haylie (Dillon) Day, Tristen (Joey) Barr, Christian Barr, Laiken Gajiski, Ava ‘Charlie’ Gajiski, Wesley Smith, Erik Smith, Michaela (Carlis) Haney, Dakota Smith, and Britni Smith, and great-grandchildren Brenden, Kiralynn, MacKenzie, Aria, Briley, Bailey and Blaze; brother Gary (Leona) Barr of Rolla, MO, and sister Colleen (Denzil) Hills of Rolla, MO; special furbabies Buddy and BooBoo, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members and many friends.

Life is so short; people have a tendency to sweat the small stuff, rather than focus on the simple blessings which surround us every day. Fred focused on his family and a simple life! He was a skilled carpenter and drywaller; he partnered with James in their own drywall business! Regardless of his health, Fred continued to work every day with James when he was able! People said he was a hard-core man, a man as tough-as-nails--yet, his son called him a hero--the greatest dad in the world who taught the true way of life to him. Fred’s unconditional love and guidance bring forth the strong adults you see today! He loved the many dogs he raised throughout his lifetime, and their love and loyalty were steadfast.

Fred faced many struggles throughout his life! Yet, he was one of the strongest people his children knew and always bounced back with even more strength and determination—a positive force. Fred never met a stranger; his love and compassion for others was admirable. He was a generous man who always helped many achieve the best for themselves. Fred would give you the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his pocket--a man with a true heart of gold!! He provided for his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always ensured his family had food, shelter and whatever was needed.

Fred and Carol loved their home on top of the mountain where he was known to open the living room window and hunt with his grandkids from his recliner. Fred was a modern-day survivalist--a free spirit with a great sense of humor and an ornery nature! He was a practical joker and was known to laugh at his own jokes, even though some were not funny, but folks just loved to hear him laugh!! Fred loved to work on cars! He loved the outdoors hunting and fishing! He, like his dad, watched professional wrestling on Saturday night. Fred loved old westerns and western movies; The Lone Ranger and Bat Masterson were among his favorites.

A memorial service for Fred Barr will be conducted on Saturday, October 16, 12:00-2:00 p.m., at The Conway Cowboy Church, 12 AR-36, Conway, AR., with Shane Dickson officiating. A graveside service for the interment of Fred’s ashes will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Brown Cemetery in Barney, AR. Family and friends will gather after the graveside service at the home of James and Shelley Barr in Greenbrier.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions to assist the family with expenses may be sent to James Barr, 11 Kirby Road, Greenbrier, AR. 72058. Online condolences may be made at www.viloniafuneral home.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Vilonia Funeral Home, 1134 Main Street, Vilonia, AR. 72173.