Search by Name

Search by Name

Neal Barrett Obituary

Neal Barrett Jr., the Austin science fiction writer whose career stretched back decades, has died at the age of 84, friends and family said Tuesday.

Published by Austin American-Statesman on Jan. 15, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Neal Barrett

Not sure what to say?





15 Entries

So sad to belatedly hear of Neal's passing. We met one time when he came by to visit his daughter Kathy, who lived across from me in the long-gone Bannister Apartments in Dallas. I read some of Neal's sci-fi, and admired a sculpture he had done near Lee Park in the Oak Lawn area. Neal was quite creative.

Robert Walton

January 29, 2015

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Gay Cowles

January 20, 2014

I remember Neal writing and directing plays at the early age of probably 10-12. We were home for family gatherings and we put these plays on for our parents and charged them a quarter. He had a brilliant mind even then. Cousin Carol I will miss him.

January 17, 2014

Rest in peace. You will be missed by all of us in the neighborhood.

Gloria Bluhm

January 17, 2014

Say hello to Dwight for me, Neal, and thank you for being kind to yet another fan of your wonderful work.

Ben Fenwick

January 16, 2014

A great man, he will be sadly missed.

Dave Dinsmore

January 15, 2014

So sorry to hear of Neal's passing! I remember my father, Chad Oliver, talking about what a great writer he was and a friend. RIP, Neal.

Kim Oliver

January 15, 2014

I knew Neal for almost twenty years and shared many a lunch with him and his beautiful wife Ruth. Neal was a charming raconteur and wrote strange and witty fiction like nobody else. I'll miss him forever. My deepest condolences to Ruth and the family.

Michael Ambrose

January 15, 2014

They broke the mold, folks.

Bruce Sterling

Bruce Sterling

January 15, 2014

Neal was my best friend. I share your sorrow.

Paul Mullins

January 15, 2014

Sorry for your loss of your beloved. Many hearts are grieving with you at this time. May the Hearer of Prayers grant peace and comfort. Psalm 65:2

January 15, 2014

Neal and I met in the early nineties at some coffee shop event where we both read from very strange books we had written. We agreed that the books we read from would make us rich and famous. Neither of us became rich, but we were famous in parts of south Austin. We tried to talk each other out of uncommercial projects, but as far as I can tell we were never successful. We ate a lot of Chinese food. For twenty years we were best friends, and his departure seems a little abrupt, but that's the way it works in the hereafter gang. He was an amazing writer, and I miss him.

Bill Spencer

January 14, 2014

Several few weeks ago, an internet friend from the Austin area told me about “The Hearafter Gang” and i'm happily in the middle of it now... this is a sad time to hear such news... my thoughts go out to him and his friends/family. Bless y'all - tom g.

tom garner

January 14, 2014

I enjoyed so much having lunch regularly with Neal, his wife Ruth, and a few other writers over the past years. The last time was in November. There was no one else like him. Great friend, great writer. RIP, dear Neal. Life won't be the same without you. May the Lord Jesus Christ comfort all who mourn and give His peace, which passes understanding.

Hendle Rumbaut

January 14, 2014

Neal was a fine person and a fabulous writer. He was always a joy to be around.

Bud Simons

January 14, 2014

Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results

Make a Donation
in Neal Barrett's name

How to support Neal's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Neal Barrett's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more