Mr. James Woodard "Jim" Barr Jr.

Jim Barr, a lifelong educator and devoted family man, passed away on June 19, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was 81 years old.
Jim was born on October 18, 1943, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late James W. Barr, Sr. and Willie P. Barr. He was raised in Atlanta, Louisiana, alongside his beloved brother, Jack, and cherished his small-town roots throughout his life.
A proud graduate of Northwestern State University, Jim earned his bachelor's degree in education before going on to obtain a master's degree from Louisiana State University. He continued advanced studies toward his Ph.D. in education at NSU, a reflection of his deep commitment to learning and teaching.
Jim dedicated his life to education and to the many students whose lives he helped shape. He was a teacher, a coach and a principal, serving students throughout DeSoto and Winn Parishes. The time he spent at Stonewall High School/Elementary School & Calvin High School were particularly special to him. He later mentored adult learners through courses at Northwestern. He had an extraordinary memory for the names and faces of his former students and took immense pride in their accomplishments.
Outside the classroom, Jim was happiest outdoors and spending time with his family. An avid sportsman, he loved riding horses and rarely passed up a chance to go fishing-always keeping a pole and tackle box close by. His love of nature was matched only by his love for his country. Jim was a proud American who never missed an opportunity to express his patriotism. He was also a man of deep faith, serving joyfully in his church by singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school.
Above all, Jim was a loving father, grandfather and brother. He took great pride in his children as well as family and passed on to them his passions for animals, fishing, and education. His legacy lives on in them and in the countless lives he touched.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jack Barr. He is survived by his children: Kelli Aiello and her husband Robert of Benton, LA; Leslie Delatorre and her husband Dez of Benton, LA; and Dr. Jimmy Barr and his wife Dr. Medora Pashmakova of Gainesville, FL. He was a proud grandfather to Dr. Tanner Roberts, Jack Barr, and Patrick Barr.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff of Brookdale Assisted Living in Shreveport, the Golden Gate nursing team and Lifepath Hospice for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Jim in his final days. Their kindness and caring will never be forgotten.
He will be deeply missed.
Services will be held at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield, LA on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Friends are welcome to visit with family on Saturday from 11:00 am until time of services. Graveside service will be held immediately after at Garden of Memories in Winnfield, LA.
Memorial gifts can be donated to the scholarship fund of Northwestern State University Alumni at https://northwesternstatealumni.com/give/ in efforts to continuing education in central Louisiana.