John E. Barber

John Earl Barber Sr

January 14, 1947-March 31, 2026

John "Jack" Earl Barber Sr., 79, of North Port, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026 with his wife Diane Hope Barber and his cuddly canine Lucy by his side.

John was born January 14, 1947 in Providence, Rhode Island to Martha and Kenneth Barber. Raised in Coventry, RI, he attended Coventry High School and later earned an Associate Degree from Johnson and Wales University.

John was also enlisted in the United States Army proudly serving in Germany. Following his time in the service he went on to have a dedicated career as a Corrections Officer at The Rhode Island Department of Corrections for over 20 years. 

Always a worker, soon after retirement, John became a blackjack dealer at Foxwoods Casino in CT. Later becoming an owner/operator of Ebby Trucking. A long distance trucking company he named after his beloved dog Ebony. 

Known for his charismatic personality and quickness to laugh. John was the kind of man who would strike up a conversation with a perfect stranger to share some of his stories and never missed a Saturday morning at the diner. He was happiest when the topic focused on his passion, cars and anything about them, or when he was just BSing with the boys after golf.

He is survived by loving wife of 25 years Diane; his son, John and his wife Angie of Utah; daughter, Julie of Rhode Island; four grandchildren: Jonathan, Mariah, Sophie Lee and Jeremy; four remaining brothers and sisters, Rosemarie, Kenneth, Lyn, and Jody; many nieces and nephews and a variety of friends who will miss his relaxed charm dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters; Betty Lou and Lisa.

A private graveside service, as was his wish, is planned at the Rhode Island Veterans' Cemetery, Exeter, Rhode Island.

Family and friends may share memories and condolences at www.gortonmenardfuneralhome.com