Joseph Earl Barber

1946 - 2026

Joseph Earl Barber, age 79, passed away on January 23, 2026, at the VA Medical Center in Memphis, Tennessee. He was born on November 3, 1946. Joseph graduated from Belden High School in 1964, marking the beginning of a life defined by dedication, perseverance, and service.

Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era and was honorably discharged. During his military service, he was stationed in both Japan and England, experiences that shaped his lifelong sense of duty, discipline, and patriotism.

Joe graduated from Belden High School in 1964. Following his military service, he continued his education at Itawamba Community College and the University of Mississippi, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to learning and self-improvement. He built a life rooted in hard work and integrity, qualities that defined him both personally and professionally.

Joseph devoted 35 years of his career to the trucking industry, where he worked in many capacities, including truck driver, dispatcher, and operations manager. His dedication, reliability, and leadership earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

A devoted supporter of Ole Miss Athletics, Joseph was a longtime season ticket holder for Ole Miss Football and greatly enjoyed cheering on the Rebels for many years.

Joseph shared 54 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Dean Whitley Barber. Their marriage was the foundation of a close and loving family and a testament to enduring love and commitment.

A man of deep faith, Joseph was a dedicated member of Hope Church Tupelo, where he attended faithfully until his health no longer allowed. His faith and church were central to his life, and he lived them out through humility and service.

Joseph Earl Barber will be remembered for his faithful service to his country, his devotion to the Lord and his family, and the strength with which he lived his life. His legacy will continue through those who loved him and the many lives he touched.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Dean Whitley Barber; daughters, Dana (Russell) Brown and Carla (Brandon) Wilemon; sister, Joan Holcomb; brother, Eddie (Tammy) Barber; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Reese Brown, Riley (Ben) Brown Davis, Ben Wilemon, Garrett Wilemon, Ryan Brown, Reagan Brown and Avery Wilemon each of whom brought him immense joy.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Boyce and Eulah Barber; his brother, Roy Barber; his brother-in-law, Charles Holcomb; and his father and mother in-law, Louie and Catherine Whitley.

Visitation will be 12 p.m. until service time Friday, January 30, 2026, at Pegues, Tupelo.

Services honoring the life of Mr. Barber will be 2 p.m. Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues with Military Honors and Rev. Brandon Wilemon and Rev. Tommy Vinson officiating.

Pallbearers will be Reese Brown, Ben Wilemon, Garrett Wilemon, Ryan Brown, Ben Davis, Dusty Barber, Doug Barber, Scotty Holcomb, and Eric Barber.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joseph's memory to River Region Pregnancy Center or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.