Carl Edward Barbour, "Cricket,"  born on June 8, 1934, in Kingsport, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on August 31, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by love, laughter, hard work, and devotion to family.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to those around him. Carl shared 65 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Peggy Alice Barbour, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a family rooted in loyalty, kindness, and enduring love. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Ramona Suzette Barbour, and his brother, James “Jimmy” Barbour.

Carl is survived by his daughters, Melissa Gale Barbour and Regina Dawn O’Brien, and her husband, Eric “Ricky” O’Brien. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Eric O’Brien, Jr., Naomi Thomason, and Daniel O’Brien, as well as his great-grandchildren, Eric O’Brien, III, Landon Weast, and Jabin Weast. His family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in each generation that followed him.

Carl spent 35 years of his life as a truck driver, traveling across the United States and earning a reputation as an award-winning safe driver. He approached his work with discipline, responsibility, and pride, and he was respected for the care he took in every mile he drove. His career reflected the same dependable character that guided every part of his life. He was a man who understood the value of hard work and the importance of doing a job well.

Beyond his career, Carl was known for his many talents and interests. He was self-taught in music and enjoyed sharing that gift in his own way. He also had a knack for magic tricks and delighted in surprising others with his playful sense of wonder. He was self-taught as a mechanic as well, and he could often fix what others thought was beyond repair. He loved watching westerns, admiring old cars, and spending time around motorcycles. In his earlier years, he owned both a Goldwing and a Harley, and he enjoyed the freedom and excitement those rides brought him. He also had a unique spirit and was known for riding his unicycle, always ready to bring a smile to those around him.

Those who knew Carl will remember him as loving, funny, and handy. He had a jokester’s heart and a trickster’s sense of humor, and he never missed an opportunity to brighten a room with laughter. His wit and charm were matched by his generosity and his steady nature. He had a way of making people feel comfortable, and his presence often brought joy to family gatherings and everyday moments alike.

Above all else, Carl believed that family always came first. That belief shaped the way he lived, worked, and loved. He gave his time, his effort, and his heart freely to the people he cared about most. His legacy will live on in the memories shared by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Carl Edward Barbour will be remembered with deep affection and lasting gratitude. His life was a testament to devotion, resilience, and the simple goodness of a man who loved his family, worked hard, and found joy in making others smile. Though he will be greatly missed, his memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to those he leaves behind.