Deward Glynn “J.R.” Barrier, Jr., of Valdese, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at his home following a short illness.

J.R. was born December 25, 1949, in Tyronza, Arkansas to the late Deward Glynn Barrier, Sr. and the late Euin Franklin Barrier. A retired Veteran, he honorably served in both the United States Marine Corp as well as the United States Navy.

In addition to his parents, J.R. was preceded in death by brothers; Don Barrier, Billy Barrier and James Barrier, and stepson; Terry N. Elmore.

Surviving is his wife of 30 years, Ruth A. Barrier; stepsons; Jason Overton and wife Lisa of Casterland, NY and Robert Elmore and wife Sarah of Hamilton, OH, stepdaughter; Tanya LaVancha and fiancé Duane Blake of Elkhart, IN, sisters; Delena Barrier-Ware of Harrisburg, AR, Eva Hooker of Harrisburg, AR and Wanda Lee of Savannah, TN, grandchildren; Carly Overton, Aubrey Overton, Lucas Elmore, Danielle Elmore, Tyler and wife Lexi Sauer, and Nazareth Elmore, and his loyal K-9 companions; Wesley, Isaac and Moose.

Services for Deward Barrier, Jr. will be held at a later date in Carthage, New York.

Memorial contributions may be made to Amorem of Burke Co., 1721 Enon Rd, Valdese, NC 28690 or Disabled American Veterans Chapter #43, 2779 Dav Ave, Morganton, NC 28655.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservicescom.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the Barrier family.