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James Barbee Obituary
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Sondra; children: Julia [Matt] Suplee, and Jason [Suraya] Barbee; and his grandchildren, who he deeply loved: Jack and Atlas Barbee, Iggy and Zula Ray Suplee; sister Kay [Larry] Baucom; brother-in-law, Mike Welch, sister-in-law Paula [Dan] Teel; as well as numerous relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Coil Wilson and Violet Coley Barbee, his parents-in-law: Walter Pharr and Mary Warwick Welch, and his brothers-in-law, Marshall Welch and Steve Gray.
Ray, as he was known, was born in June of 1947, and grew up on a small family farm in Locust, North Carolina. After graduating a proud Tarheel from UNC Chapel Hill, he married the love of his life, Sondra. While in school earning his MBA, he completed his service in the Army Reserves. Setting his sights high, he moved his family to Portland, Oregon, and started an illustrious career in the forest products industry. Ray was an executive in the field of Sales and Marketing working at Boise Cascade, Louisiana Pacific, Roseburg Forest Products, and most recently as the President of Western Wood Products Association. When not working, he could be found with his nose in a book or local newspaper-- as he was an avid reader. He had a signature personal style, often generously gifting pairs of Sperry Top Siders to friends and family spreading his love of the classic footwear. Ray enjoyed an active lifestyle going on a daily run, walking his beloved dogs, hiking local waterfalls, and spending summers in Sunriver, and at Cannon Beach with family. He was a long-time active member of both Lake Grove Presbyterian Church, and the Portland Carolina Club. His legacy is one of lovingly providing for his family, integrity in business, and devotion to his wife of 50 years. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 16th, at 11am at Lake Grove Presbyterian Church in Lake Oswego, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Locust Presbyterian Church, locustpresbyterian.org (c/o Ray Barbee Memorial).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Glenn Tucker
June 21, 2025
Ray and I were in the same pledge class of Sigma Phi Epsilon at UNC -- two of many small-town guys at Sig Ep. What a terrific person! We also shared a basketball chat and loved keeping up with the Tar Heels, RIP, my friend.
Butch Pollard
June 15, 2025
Sondra, Julia, and Jason, so very sorry to learn of Ray unexpected passing away. My few years working for Ray were some of the best. He was an extraordinary manager and co-worker. Miss seeing him at the Boise lunches. He was always mentioning how important each of you were to him and his love for you. He was and is a very special person and blessed me and my family . You are in our thoughts and prayers on this day to honor your Father and Husband.. Am sorry I missed his Memorial, I was with my brother as he was in the final hours of hospice.
Jim Appleby
May 23, 2025
Ray was simply The Best! Known to me as a fellow colleague together at First Union National Bank. May the memories of RAy be a blessing to all who were fortunate to have known him.
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Mark Dawson
May 20, 2025
I first met Ray when I worked for Roseburg Forest Products. I didn't report directly to Ray, but saw first hand his character and professionalism. We kept in touch even more so in the last few years. Ray was always very supportive and we had a common bond in our faith. Ray will be missed. My condolences to the family. Mark Dawson
Meg Marshall
May 6, 2025
Knowing Ray has made my life better. His smile would light up a room at a Carolina Club event and I was so grateful he shared his Carolina spirit here in Portland. Sending much love to all of you.
Ross Cornelius
May 5, 2025
Ray was one of those special people whose character and influence reverberate through a lifetime. I am so sad to learn of his passing, while heartened to learn of the many people who knew and loved him along the way. Once a friend, always a friend. He will be missed.
Pat Parisi
May 5, 2025
It was my pleasure to work with Ray during his executive transition to Rosburg Lbr. Little did I know that he didn't make acquaintances, Ray made friends for life. I will miss his annual call "... just thinking about and wanted to check in".
Jan Huffman
May 4, 2025
I am so saddened by the death of Ray. It was a privilege to work with and for him. He was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever known.
Ralph Cooke
May 3, 2025
Ray was a fraternity brother at UNC. He was one of the most-loved members/brothers in the fraternity. I can never recall Ray saying anything negative about anyone, and I cannot recall anyone ever saying anything negative about Ray. He was, very simply, loved by all. We will all miss this kind and gentle man, and we share your grief. God bless you all.
Carie Strahorn
April 28, 2025
Ray was the most gracious and supportive manager imaginable. As a businessman, he was as gentle, fair and thoughtful as he was tough-minded - a true role model for those under his tutelage. He left an indelible mark on many, many lives, and will be truly missed.
Carol Carpenter
April 28, 2025
Ray was a great mentor, man and friend. He will be greatly missed by many.
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