Mike Barber

Michael Eugene Barber, 66, of Versailles, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. Mike was born February 23, 1958, in Versailles, Kentucky to the late Mattie Mae Todd and Obie Lee Barber Sr. Mike's passion was working with horses, which he did most of his life. He was a champion wrestler, a drummer, and a Pittsburg Steelers, Dallas Cowboys, and Cincinnati Reds fan. He did lawn care, played softball, hated gerbils and guinea pigs, but loves dogs, especially his two latest pets, Sissy and Tyson. He was known to play Bat Man and Robin with his first dog, King. And, his family has fond memories of Mike telling lots of stories about his first pony, Honey. Big Mike was a dedicated grandfather and brother. His family will miss him greatly. Mike is survived by his grandson, Michael Eugene "Trey" Barber, III; granddaughter, Samantha Barber; their mother, Melissa Barber and their grandmother and Mike's wife of 28 years, Jane Barber; Brother, Obie (Margaret) Lee Barber Jr.; Sister, June Sharon Barber; Nephew, Brian Joseph Barber; and great nephew and niece who were like grandchildren to Papaw Mike: Zachary Allen Cunningham and Brenna Cunningham. Mike was preceded in death by his son, Michael Eugene Barber, II, and his nephew, Zachary Todd Cunningham. Mike's funeral service will be Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 6:00 pm at Blackburn and Ward Funeral Home, Versailles, Kentucky with Rev. Larry Blackford Sr. officiating. Visitation will be from 3:00 until the time of service. Honorary Pallbearers will be Trey Barber, Samantha Barber, Brenna Cunningham, Zachary Cunningham, Ben Preston, Michael O'Neal, Dallas Best, Jeff Kincaid, Jason Lemons, and Steven Shepard. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blackburn and Ward Funeral Home to offset the cost of the funeral. Friends and family members are encouraged to leave messages of condolences and memories on Mike's tribute page at www.Blackburnandward.com.