David Phillip Barlow, Sr.

David Phillip Barlow, Sr.

“Pa”

September 18, 1949 – February 2, 2026

David was born in Jeff Davis County on September 18, 1949 to Mellie Conley Barlow, Sr. and Lillie Maude Williams Barlow.

David passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, surrounded by his family—exactly the way he would have chosen it if he could have hand-picked the moment himself. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mellie Conley Barlow, Sr. and Lillie Maude Williams Barlow.

David is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carolyn Barlow, the love of his life and the center of his world. He also leaves behind his two children, Lisa Barlow Quinn (Jerrod) and Davy Barlow (Trina—his favorite nurse). His greatest joy came from his six grandchildren, Mikela, Jared, Mikel (Zoie), Josh (Bibi), Caroline, and John David, and his great-grandchild, Wil Conley Barlow, who meant the world to him. David is also survived by his brother, M.C. Barlow, Jr. (Ila), as well as numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were like family to him.

David served in the United States National Guard and was a former iron worker. David dedicated his life to his profession and to providing for his family. He was also a farmer at heart—never afraid of hard work and always happiest when his hands were busy. An avid hunter and fisherman, David found peace in the outdoors, whether it was waiting quietly in a deer stand or casting a line with patience only he seemed to have.

David loved country music—the real country music—and was a proud Atlanta Braves and Georgia Bulldogs fan. He enjoyed a good cigarette, quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, and watching the sun rise over the pond from the front porch. His afternoons were often reserved for naps on the back porch, perfectly timed between the beginning and end of NASCAR races. He took pride in sharpening the lawn mower blades and filling it with gas, just so he could sit nearby and watch Carolyn cut the grass, taking it all in.

If you knew David, you knew his grandchildren and great-grandchild were his pride and joy. He was a storyteller at heart, known for tales that somehow grew richer and more detailed each time he told them. In the simple moments—porch sitting, storytelling, and time with family—David “Pa” found a life well lived.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with Chris Nail and Owen Waters officiating. Interment will follow in Barlow Family Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be his grandchildren, Mikela Barlow, Jared Allen, Mikel Barlow, Joshua Barlow, Caroline Allen, and John David Barlow, and his great grandson, Wil Conley Barlow.

Honorary pallbearers will be the Ironworkers Local Union 709 and employees of Plant Hatch.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Swain Funeral Home.