NEWPORT NEWS — Leo Franklin Barbour, 86, peacefully passed away Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020, at home surrounded by his family after an 18-year battle with prostate cancer. Born Sept. 7, 1934, he retired at age 65 from IBEW Local 1340. Leo was also known as “Uncle Leo,” and lived life to its fullest.
Leo was an adventurer, explorer and had an exceptional love for seafood. His travels took him all over the world. Leo enjoyed the outdoors; fresh, warm air; and the serenity of peaceful beaches. He believed in the Lord Jesus, a “simple life” (not materialistic); and good old-fashioned conversations with family and friends. His biggest enjoyment was playing the stock market, and, in his younger years, tinkering with cars. If you needed something fixed, just ask; he could fix anything!
Leo was preceded in death by his former wife and high school sweetheart, Rose Marie Barbour; parents, Thelbert Barbour, Fannie, and stepfather, Waverly Wood.
Leo left behind his daughters, Venus Toler (Gary) of Smithfield, Vickie Barbour of Newport News and Linda Gunter (Wayne) of Smithfield; son, Jon Barbour of Newport News; granddaughter, Angelique Sage (Nathan) of Newport News; three great-grandchildren, Destin, Chase and Ryland; brothers, Ryland “Bobby” Barbour (Barbara) of Poquoson and Dennis Barbour of Hampton; many nieces; stepchild, Rhonda (Tony) of Memphis, Tennessee; and many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 28, at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Hampton Memorial Gardens.
Our father asked that in lieu of flowers, to please donate to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital so those kids may have a wonderful chance in life.
Share online condolences with the family at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.
