Minister John Paul Barree

John Paul Barree was born on March 28, 1960, at Foard County Hospital in Crowell, Texas, to Paul and Marie Barree. He was the middle child, preceded by his older sister, Paula Barree, and followed by his younger brother, Herbert Barree.

John thrived during his elementary school years in Crowell, Texas, and later continued his education in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in Dallas in 1978.

He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Prairie View A&M University. He also earned two Master of Business Administration degrees from Tarleton State University and Amberton University, as well as a Master of Theology and a Master of Urban Ministry from Aspen Theological Seminary.

John placed his faith in Jesus Christ at an early age. He was an active and devoted member of Westside Baptist Church in Lewisville, Texas, where he faithfully served as an Associate Minister. His many areas of service included 7th and 8th Grade Sunday School Teacher, leader of the Singles Ministry, proud member of Adult SMBS (CEO Class #8), Ministry Lead for Food Distribution Community Outreach, CCA Volunteer, Pre-Marital Counseling Facilitator, and New Members Facilitator for orientation classes.

John also volunteered at Vista Ridge Nursing Home in Lewisville, Texas, and served as a visiting minister at Prairie Nursing Home in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Throughout his ministry journey, he served as an Ordained Minister, Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, and Men's Bible Study Teacher at St. John Baptist Church in Stephenville, Texas. At Greater El Bethel Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, he served as a Sunday School Teacher, Usher, and Deacon.

Throughout his career, John built meaningful and lasting relationships everywhere he worked. He dedicated his time and talents to Standard Manufacturing, Norton Company, Tarleton State University, Alcatel, the Texas Workforce Commission, and Peterbilt. In every role, he was known not only for his strong work ethic and professionalism but also for his integrity, leadership, and willingness to mentor and encourage others. Beyond his corporate and academic contributions, John also shared his love for the game of golf as a Golf Instructor. Teaching the sport allowed him to combine patience, discipline, and encouragement, qualities that reflected who he was both personally and professionally. Whether in the workplace or on the golf course, John left a lasting impression through the relationships he cultivated and the lives he positively impacted.

John married Mae in 1992, and together they formed a blended family of seven children. Their children include Victoria (Harold) Calloway, Ramona Portlock-Brumfield, Melanie Morris, Johanna Portlock, Rachel Portlock, Paul Barree, and John-Michael Portlock. He was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren: Amber Brumfield, Brittany Portlock, Tesa Morris, Joshua Morris, Caden Johnson, Chloe Portlock, Noah Early, and John-Michael Javier Portlock. He also leaves behind a plethora of love from his cousins, Tonia and Curtis Moore, and Ros Milliner, alongside the Menefee family; his Godsister, Richetta "Ricki" McNeil; and his Goddaughter, SaCarol Ford.

God called John home on February 21, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Marie Barree; his mother-in-law, Lula Thompson; and a host of beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins.

His legacy will continue to live on through the lives of his beloved wife, siblings, children, and grandchildren; his cousins, godsister, and goddaughter; and a host of relatives, church members, golf students, and dear friends whose lives he touched.