John L. Barber

John Lafayette Barber Sr., age 76, beloved father and husband passed away September 1, 2025, at home with his daughters at his side.  He was born on April 15, 1949, in Ionia to Don and Barbara Barber. He shared his life being married to Shirley (Brown) for 37 years.

John served his community as a firefighter for the Ionia Public Safety 49-33. He was a family man; he liked to hang out with friends and family on the weekends having a few beers while playing sports. He enjoyed horseshoes, volleyball, darts, Euchre, Yahoo and listening to his “oldies”.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son John Jr., brothers Lloyd and Steve, daughter-in-law Beatrice Ann Dean, grandson Zachary James Barber, great grandsons Colton James Barber and Aaiden Zachariah Alfaro.

John is survived by his daughters Lorrene (Leroy) Jerrils of Fenwick and Dia (Brett) Graham of Orleans; grandchildren Kari (Mike) Walker, John (Jessica) Barber, William (Tyann) Graham, Kelli (Matt) Bowerman, Kayla (Andy) Graham, Katilynn (Tyler) Barber, Kati (Glenn) Ross, Brettany (Estevan) Arambula, and Natalie Graham; 24 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

John will be missed for his nonjudgmental nature and acceptance of all. He served as a hero, mentor, and friend to both close friends and the whole community. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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