1960 - 2012
1960 - 2012
Obituary
Guest Book
1960
2012
Barry Croasmun, 51, passed away November 15, 2012. Born in New Martinsville, WV, Barry moved to Jacksonville, FL in 1984.
Graduating from West Liberty State College, Barry moved to Jacksonville, Fl in 1984 and fulfilled his dream of becoming an Art Teacher and great Artist. Working at Mandarin Middle School, Barry excelled in his career and had an impact on many young lives. He was instrumental in guiding students to further pursue their talent at the prestigious Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. Becoming Teacher of the Year in 2004 at Mandarin Middle School was a highlight in his career. He led his life with dignity, grace and style and will be greatly missed by all those who knew him. Farewell Barry...you will always be in our hearts and minds.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Joreen Billiter Croasmun and his niece Hannah Croasmun. Barry is survived by his father, H. Louis “Bud” Croasmun; brothers Brent (Debbie) and Brad (Marsha) Croasmun both of Paden City, WV, Brian Croasmun (Sherry) of New Martinsville, WV, and Bart Croasmun (Carrie) of Paris, TN; nephews Eric Croasmun, Adam Croasmun, Chase Croasmun, Jake Croasmun, and Michael Carney; nieces Davianne Croasmun, Kayla Leek, and Chris Koerber.
The Croasmun family will receive family and friends Tuesday, November 20, 2012 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin. A memorial service will follow at 7:00 pm at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Richard and Becky Mann
December 2, 2012
We are going to Miss you very much.God bless, and our prayers are with family and friend
Lori (Croasmun) Folleltt
November 26, 2012
I have so many fun memories of Barry and his brothers joining the 16 Croasmun cousins at the farm in Valier for our annual reunions. There was never a dull moment with 21 kids and 12 adults under one roof!
"Uncle" Bud, Brent, Brad, Bart and Brian - I am so sorry to hear of Barry's passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Nia Carrington-Nees
November 26, 2012
I remember Mr. Croasmun's art class at Mandarin middle and how nice he was and how he made the class fun. I enjoyed his class and still have a piece I made in that class. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Shannon Trenary
November 25, 2012
I was lucky enough to have been a student of Mr. Croasmun while at Mandarin Middle School (I attended the first 4 years it was ever open in Jacksonville), one of the best teachers there. He will always be remembered as one of the best art teachers there!
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Teresa Higginbotham
November 25, 2012
I had the pleasure of working with Barry at Mandarin Middle in the early 1990's and my daughter was also his student. I still have some of her artwork from his class. Very sorry for your loss.
WandRa Sanders
November 22, 2012
Barry and I were the art teachers hired for the opening of Mandarin Middle School in 1990. Our instant chemistry as friends lasted the duration of time. With a heavy heart and deep sorry I extend sincere condolence to the Croasmun family.
Karen Stevens-Gerk
November 21, 2012
Barry and I use to sit together on the band bus our freshman year. I remember laughing soooo hard that our faces hurt and being sad when the bus pulled back into the high school!! Barry was an amazing person! Deepest sympathy to all his family & friends.
Noah Thurlow
November 21, 2012
I had Mr. Croasmun as an art teacher in 6th grade. Before I had taken his class, I didn't really like art. But Mr. Croasmun made me look at art in a different way. I will truly miss him.
November 21, 2012
Barry and I first met in 1990 when we were both hired to teach at the brand new Mandarin Middle School. We were friends from day one, and I always looked forward to seeing Barry. He was just that kind of a person - one who resinates the positive outlook on life. Barry and I shared travel stories, and when he would go out of town, I often stayed at his beach house and looked after his dog. Later, after I was married, we continued our friendship through the local artworld. My brother-in-law is also an artist, so we would sometimes meet Barry at some of the local art openings. I still remember the night we attended the Art Auction at the Schultz Center. Another fond memory I have of Barry was when he was working toward his National Board Certification. He was in my mentor group, and just his presence, made what should have been a tedious task - actually fun and enjoyable! Barry was also an excellent Shared Decision Committe Leader at our school. I watched in awe, as he used his good humor and warm personality to run the meetings and keep everyone happy. On a personal note, I still have the beautiful ceramic black and white swan he made for my husband and me when we were married. It is the focal piece of our sitting area, and now, it has even greater meaning. I am certainly going to miss Barry. Khaki Hager
Katie Graham
November 21, 2012
The world needs more people like Barry. He was a good man who came from a great family. He will be greatly missed but we will forever remember him. His smile and kindness will be preserved in our memories.
Laura Friend
November 21, 2012
Peace, peace be still..
Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Laura and Eugene Friend
Angela Anderson
November 21, 2012
A wonderful man went to be with God this day. May his family and friends find comfort in knowing he is now home and very happy. God Bless his family!
Catherine Fenner
November 20, 2012
Barry truly lit up a room and ignited the hearts of those that were privileged to know him! You will be missed.
November 20, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kelley Yates-Ganey
November 20, 2012
I met Barry on my first day of teaching 28 years ago. He was such an amazing teacher, and friend. We spent so much time at the beach, on the phone and having fun. I have so many wonderful memories of our time together. Barry was talented in may ways, and I was so honored when he sang at my wedding. I have many things in my home that Barry made and I will treasure them forever. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Gary & Trina Corlew
November 20, 2012
We are sending our thoughts, prayers and much love to all of you during this time of sorrow. We will never forget the kindness Barry showed us each time we were around him and thank him for all the love he had for his family during times of other's sadness. We will miss him and pray for all of you whose hearts are breaking.
November 20, 2012
As stated in the Big Book A Vision for You "Among them you will make lifelong friends."Abandon yourself to God as you understand God." "Give freely of your self and join us. We shall be with you in the Fellowship of the Spirit, and you will surly meet some of us as you trudge the Road of Happy Destiny. May God bless and keep you- until then." We love you Barry Our Thoughts and Prayers to James and The Croasmun Family, Rita and Carol
Carol Schaffer
November 20, 2012
My prayers are for the family.
November 20, 2012
I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Barry for years at Mandarin Middle School. He was an outstanding teacher and will be missed by many. Prayers to his family and friends. Karen Sheard
Shane
November 19, 2012
Mr. Croasmun was a phenomenal teacher & person. Always greeted every student before every class. I was a student of his in 8th grade in 1999. Such a great person who will truly be missed! He definitely made an impact!
C. Crimmel
November 19, 2012
Barry will be greatly missed by faculty, staff, and students at Mandarin Middle School. He was an inspiration to all.
November 19, 2012
you were a wonderful teacher who inspired your students to do fantastic work, you will be missed and my heart goes out to your family. You will be missed. Kathy Fulcher
Diane Martin
November 19, 2012
I met Barry in the late '80s at Mandarin Christian Church in Jacksonville, FL. He and I led the 3rd & 4th grade youth group and also taught that age group in Sunday School.
Barry was a wonderful man, I will never forget his laugh.
To his family, I lift up prayers for comfort in your time of sorrow.
angela davis
November 19, 2012
we will miss you dearly mr croasman.. you were a wonderful teacher when i went to mandarin middle when it first opened...and since then over the years both my daughters have had the privilage to have u as an art teacher as well....we love u and will miss you
angela trenary davis
J. Hogan
November 19, 2012
Barry was an amazing teacher who inspired many students to reach their artistic potential. He opened Mandarin Middle School back in 1990 so he is the Mandarin Middle art program! He will be missed by all who knew him.
Susan Greene
November 19, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with Barry's family and many friends who will miss the twinkle in his eye. Barry's love of art, life and children was such a great gift to our world. I am honored to have known him.
November 19, 2012
The entire Pursley WV church extends deepest love and concern for the Croasmun family. Those of you who are a part of this church are more than special to us and we want only the very best for each of you. We are so sorry at the loss of such an important part of your family. I'm sure Barry's memory will linger in your hearts for a lifetime.
- Tom Butterfield, Pursley minister
Jonathan Sokoloff
November 19, 2012
Your best artwork was never something visible. Your best artwork was your spirit you put into every minute of the day. Luckily for anyone who knew Barry, that kind of art can't be taken away.
Joy Recla
November 19, 2012
Barry will live on in the hearts and memories of those of us who were privileged to know him and to call him friend. I'll miss you, Barry, but I know you are in a better place!
Jeff Martin
November 19, 2012
Barry shared himself when he taught, and his heart and art if you were fortunate enough to have worked with him, and those who knew him are, and will be feeling his loss deeply in the days and years to come. His sincere voice booming down the hall was a daily staple, and as a fellow West Virginian, he quickly became a trusted friend who always knew how to turn any situation into a reason to laugh. Our hearts are broken, Barry, and only time will heal that sharp pang ~ we miss you, my friend. You were an inspiration to the thousands you've inspired with your buoyant personality over the years, and my son calls you his favorite teacher, from the visits from the Hawk's Nest, and giggles shared on planning days. . .we just hurt when we think of you, man.
November 18, 2012
PRAYING FOR PEACE AND COMFORT IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW. BARRY WAS A WONDERFUL FRIEND. HE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR HOW HE ENRICHED OUR LIVES JUST BY KNOWING HIM. HEAVENS GAIN IS OUR LOSS. SLEEP WELL MY FRIEND TILL WE MEET AGAIN...................
Kari Wetzel Weekley
November 18, 2012
I am so very sorry for the Croasmun family, I grew up with the Croasmun boy's Barry was older but he was always polite and sweet when I seen him at Betty and Decks house my heart breaks for the family. You are all I'm my prayers.
Beth Ashley
November 18, 2012
Mandarin Middle is not the same without you. You are such an important part of our school. I know the students adored you and will miss you as much as the faculty. Rest in peace, Barry.
Fred Ferrebee
November 18, 2012
"Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep". Sending our prayers to the Croasmun family we are so sorry... Fred & Joyce Ferrebee.
Nancy Saffold
November 18, 2012
"Prayers and thoughts are with the Croasmum Family". Barry will be missed but we have our memories. God bless.
November 18, 2012
barry you will be missed,but god has plans for us, i love you . aunt karen.
Karen Pryor-Steele
November 18, 2012
My thoughts and Prayers for the Croasman family during this difficult time. I will always remember Barry's laughter and smile!
Tim and Carolyn Hizer
November 18, 2012
You will will be greatly missed and always remembered. Praying for peace and comfort for all those who you have left behind.
Rick and Debbie Yurisko
November 18, 2012
Barry was a wonderful man. I have many memories of laughing and the fun we had on band trips. We are praying that God will surround you with his love and peace as you remember and hold the memories close.
Judi Bennett
November 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. Barry had such a great talent and I remember his laughter.
Linda Beverlin (Shinn)
November 18, 2012
To Barry's family I send prayers. I have wonderful memories of Barry growing up in Paden City.
Mickie Hall
November 18, 2012
Barry always made me laugh. He was a joy to be around!!! God bless him and his entire family and friends
Amy Frazier
November 18, 2012
Thinking of you all. So very sorry for your loss.
Evan Newman
November 18, 2012
"but when in their trouble they turned to the Lord God of Isreal, and sought Him, He was found by them." -2 Chronicles 15:4
Croasmun Family, you are in the thoughts and prayers of many throughout the Wetzel County area and I'm sure many other places. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers and I hope that God can work as a crutch for all of you to lean upon during this difficult time.
Dee Walker
November 18, 2012
To the family, May you feel God's arms of love and comfort around you at this time. Love &Prayers, Richard & Dee
Kevin Pryor
November 18, 2012
So sad to here of Barry's passing. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Kevin
Teresa Runyan
November 18, 2012
I have wonderful memories of teaching with Barry at Annie R. Morgan Elementary. Barry was a very talented teacher and artist. He was witty and fun and enjoyed life. I extend my sympathy to all who loved him.
James, Julia, Sadie and Cannon Matheny
November 18, 2012
Sending prayers to the Croasmun Family during this difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing Barry is no longer suffering. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. With love The Matheny Family
Lark Higginbotham
November 18, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. Keep your memories of Barry in our heart forever. Lark
Saundra Thigpen
November 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. My son Trent had Mr. Croasman's class last year and spoke very highly of him and how much he enjoyed his class.
donna blakely
November 18, 2012
My prayers and thoughts are with the family, Barry was a wonderful teacher, he was loved and admired by many.
November 18, 2012
Our prayers are with you all during this time. May you feel the love and peace that our Heavenly Father has for each of you. With love, the Munari family.
Kathleen Murray
November 18, 2012
Barry Croasmun was the epitome of a teacher- he inspired, he encouraged, he modeled, he put his heart into his teaching. It was such an honor to open Mandarin Middle with Barry and enjoy 20+ years teaching with such a creative, talented, and special man. Barry has left this world a better place because of who he was and his legacy will always be the thousands of students he inspired and the many friends who love him dearly and will miss him each and every day.
Charlie Allen
November 17, 2012
Bart and Carrie: Prayers being uplifted by many in words of comfort for all the family.May God Bless. Charlie Allen
Brenda Weekly
November 17, 2012
May you rest in peace, old friend. Heaven is brighter now because you are there. You brought light and joy wherever you were. May your family and friends be comforted by wonderful memories of your sweet soul. May peace be with all of you.
De De Baker-Chamberlain
November 17, 2012
Sending thoughts and prayers to all of your family in this time of sorrow. God Bless. Heaven has a wonnderful angel. ^i^
November 17, 2012
Bart/ Carrie our thoughts and prayers from Sulphur Well are with you during this difficult time. Bob and Betty Anderson
Connie Blatt Cooper
November 17, 2012
My prayers and thoughts are with Barry's family and friends during this difficult time I have many fond memories of Barry from High School and West Liberty. Rest In Peace Barry you will be missed
Connie Blatt Cooper
November 17, 2012
My prayers and thoughts are with Barry's family and friends during this difficult time I have many fond memories of Barry from High School and West Liberty. Rest In Peace Barry you will be missed
Juanita Hopkins Van Ryzin
November 16, 2012
I was lucky enough to have graduated from high school with Barry. I have many fond memories of joy and laughter whenever he was near.
Jan Weekly Ellis
November 16, 2012
When I think back on my high school years and my experiences in the band, I always picture Barry laughing. I hope he carried that joy through the rest of his life. My prayers are with all of those who knew and loved him best. God bless you all.
Merry Ann Westbrooks
November 16, 2012
Reese, Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.
November 16, 2012
Sending Love and Prayers to all of you in your time of sorrow! May God grant you all Peace and Comfort knowing Barry is painting the flowers in Heaven tonight!!
Ilene Harlan and Betty Billeter (Paden City, WV)
Cindy and Greg Gorby
November 16, 2012
Sending many thoughts and prayers to all of you at this time. May God comfort you and bring you peace as only he can. Thinking of you all. God bless you. Love, Greg, Cindy, Justin and Grant Gorby
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11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223

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