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James Barlow Obituary
Father James Barlow, a priest of the archdiocese who most recently served as pastor of St. Luke's Catholic Church in San Antonio until his retirement last June, died at his residence in Castle Hills the morning of January 13, 2019. He was 74.
James Patrick Barlow was born on Nov. 23, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Marion Barlow and his brother Timothy Barlow. He is survived by his brother, Robert T. Barlow (Patricia) and seven nieces and nephews.
Fr. Barlow earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from St. Mary's University before pursuing theology studies at St. Mary's, Assumption Seminary, and Oblate School of Theology.
He was ordained to the priesthood on May 18, 1973 at St. Luke's Church. Prior to his priestly ordination, Barlow had served for a year as a deacon there.
Father Barlow was assigned as associate pastor of St. Patrick's Church in San Antonio from June 1973 to June 1975, and then as associate pastor at St. Dominic's Church in San Antonio from July 1975 to June 1980. He assumed the pastorate of St. Rose of Lima Church in Schulenburg from June 1980 to June 1983.
Father Barlow then began more than two decades of service as a chaplain in the United States Air Force in various assignments until his retirement from the military and subsequent return to the archdiocese.
In June 2007, Father Barlow was appointed as pastor of St. Luke Catholic Church for a six-year term. He oversaw an expansion and renovation of the church facility in 2009, and the dedication of a new gymnasium complex in 2011.
Father Barlow's pastorate was renewed for an additional six-year term in 2013. Soon thereafter, Father Barlow was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a disorder of the central nervous system which affects movement. Progression of the disease necessitated his retirement from the parish in June 2018.
He was a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and member of the American Legion.
FUNERAL SERVICES
Visitation will begin on Thursday, January 17th at 5:00 P.M. with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 P.M. at St. Luke's Catholic Church.
Visitation will resume on Friday, January 18th at 8:30 A.M. with the Funeral Mass to be offered at 10:00 A.M. at St. Luke's Catholic Church.
Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery at Cordi-Marian with military honors.
Condolences may be sent at www.theangelusfuneralhome.
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To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Barlow
Sponsored by Angelus Funeral Home - San Antonio.
Robert & Judy Comer
January 9, 2024
Fr. Jim. You have blessed our family with your homilies, smiles, and fervent worship of God, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. We will never forget you and know we support the Military Archdiocese and your fellow priests that provide our Catholic faith all over the globe. A sincere thanks and heavenly blessings, good and faithful servant.
John Roberts
September 12, 2021
Just saw this. Fr Jim was my priest at Ramstein AB Germany and presided at my RCIA confirmation. I am blessed to have known him.
RANDY N BETH RICAFRENTE
February 21, 2021
Rest In Peace Father Barlow. The best Father I have had in my career that spans everywhere from Israel to Korea to Maryland. I recall you as my Father at my first duty station in Dover AFB, Delaware. You truly were carrying out the word of God. May you Rest In Peace and enjoy the serenity that comes with being in Heaven. Sincerely, Randy and Beth RicaFrente
Michael Bird
August 6, 2020
I never knew Father James Barlow and only recently discovered him through my family research. We are 3rd cousins descended from the Barlow Family of County Tipperary, Ireland. I was touched by the sentiments reflected in the Guest Book comments. Father James has influenced many lives through his service and has tried to make a difference. It is obvious that he succeeded in spades and I am proud to call him family. Sadly, we will never meet; nevertheless, the expressions of love expressed through this Guest Book will inspire me. I will share it with my mother, Thelma Bird (Barlow) who lives in a residential care facility in Brisbane, Australia. She would have loved to have met you, Father.
Jill Gershon
March 4, 2019
So sorry to hear about Jim passing away. He lived next to me on Odyssey in Universal City when he was in the military. I'd walk his Golden Retriever when he would need it and I bought his Saturn for my daughter. What a wonderful man and neighbor he was.
Kristin Haynes Cullinan
February 19, 2019
I knew Father Jim when I was a child (Ramstein/80s). He was an amazing priest, mentor and friend to our family. We have a recording somewhere of him singing the beautiful "Song of Thanksgiving." Through all these years I still have fond memories of his hugs and humor. I pray for his peace and joy and envision him joking and laughing with Our Lord.
February 6, 2019
You shall live forevermore with our Lord in heaven, Fr. Barlow!
January 21, 2019
You were an inspiration and we were blessed to have known you. RIP dear Friend.
Ofelia FP
January 20, 2019
In loving memory for Fr. James. RIP
Thomas Wigington
January 18, 2019
I am sorry for your loss. Always remember that God is loving and kind and He cares for you. 1Peter 5:6,7
Glenn Zinsmeyer
January 18, 2019
Father Jim, continually raised the bar of Pastoral Care...his compassion and sympathy shined through to everyone who was fortunate enough to cross his path. He was an integral part of our family and will live in our thoughts forever.
Susan Denk
January 18, 2019
Fr Jim touched so many lives. On behalf of the entire Denk family we are so very grateful to have had him in our lives. He was a wonderful man and a great Priest and friend. We loved his sense of humor. Fr. Jim was a comfort to each of us and our parents, Pat and Hank Denk as they progressed on their earthly journey. We know he will be deeply missed by many.
Warmly, The Denk Family
Irma MARTINEZ
January 18, 2019
To Father Jim's surviving family: Thank you for sharing Father Jim with us. Even though he called himself a "Yankee", he loved everything about San Antonio and we, in return, loved him as our Pastoral Shepard. Father Jim is on his Journey to Heaven as his Mission here on earth is accomplished. Blessings and condolences to all.
FR jAMES Schiffer
January 17, 2019
I served with JIM at Ramstein AB,(1988) Germany and we were friends ever since. JIM WAS A VERY TALENTED PRIEST. Jim, enjoy heaven which you so richly deserve.
Fraternally, Fr. Jim Schiffer
Kathy Flinn
January 17, 2019
Fr. Jim helped me through some difficult times with his wise and simple words. He always seemed to know how to succinctly comfort and send his parishioners off more inspired and closer to God. Was just readdressing my Christmas letter to him that had just been returned a month later when I heard of his death. Rest In Peace Dear Father Jim--and thank you for your service to God and to our country.
Sister Kathleen Goike, IWBS
January 17, 2019
A wonderful priest who touched many lives.
Luke School
January 17, 2019
On behalf of St Luke Catholic School we are all so Thankful that Fr Jim Barlow was part of our lives in every which way as well as his beloved "Luke" that made our children so happy. He was a great Priest and wonderful gentleman that always saw the best in people-very patient, kind, humble, big- hearted, hard working, peaceful person and spiritual leader for all of us -a true disciple of the Lord.
"Your workmanship is marvelous---and how well I know it. You were there while I was being formed in utter seclusion" PSALM 139:14,15
Cecilia Hernandez Novak
January 17, 2019
Fr. Jim was so much a part of my late teens and early twenties at St. Dominic's. He was a great neighbor, friend and spiritual leader. He was our singing priest! May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Daniel Okruhlik
January 17, 2019
Rest In Peace father Jim a great priest
Arthur and Irma Garza
January 16, 2019
Fr. Barrow, you were a great inspiration and mentor. We became more involved with the church because of you. May you enjoy your place in heaven with God and pray for us here on earth. Your smile and vibrant air will be missed.
Karen (McDonald) Hagen
January 16, 2019
Back in 1985 in Germany Padre (as we all called him) started a singles group. This group became our family while in Germany (and beyond). I especially remember decorating his Christmas tree (which afterwards he told me he had to re-do as we did it wrong) and going caroling in his German neighbor. There are so many favorite memories but the best ones of all was just sitting and talking with him. He was always there for everyone. He will be missed. My sympathy to his family and all those who have been touched by him. It is nice to know I have another friend looking down on me.
Sharon Freeto
January 16, 2019
I served with Father Barlow as an Air Force chaplain many years ago. We were both young. (I was the younger). As a woman chaplain I experienced many negative relationships with other chaplains, but Jim was always gracious and affirming of my ministry. He was that way with all with whom he came into contact. The world is a lesser place with him removed from it. My sympathy is with his family and friends. He was an extraordinary man and priest who blessed me and many.
May 12, 2012 Officiating the wedding of our eldest son and daughter-in-law.
Maria DiOrio
January 16, 2019
Relay for Life,<br />Yorktown, VA<br />June 9, 2006
Maria DiOrio
January 16, 2019
May 11, 2012 <br />
Maria DiOrio
January 16, 2019
Maria DiOrio
January 16, 2019
Always in our hearts.
Maria DiOrio
January 16, 2019
We first met Fr. Jim when we were stationed in SE Virginia in 2003. He quickly became a close family friend as we often dog-sat his beloved golden retriever, Fred. (For those who knew Fred, you know he was a joyful handful.) We kept in touch after he moved to San Antonio and mourned the loss of Fred together. Fr. Jim was always a loving, steady and guiding influence in our lives. He was a shining light in a tumultuous world who brought many closer to Christ. In his efforts to build 'community', he ensured that his parishioners & friends would carry on long after he departed. His legacy is the many lives he touched. I know he was greeted by Fred and so many loved ones Sunday morning. I am confident he will continue to hold us all close in prayer from his heavenly home. We thank God for allowing Fr. Jim to be a part of our lives. Rest in eternal peace, Fr. Jim. We love you and will miss you dearly!
Frank & Ernestine Navarro and family
January 16, 2019
Our hearts are filled with much sadness. We offer our deepest condolences to Father Jim's family and to all who knew and loved him. He was so kind,loving and helpful.He helped us through a difficult time during the battle and loss of our son due to cancer.He was there with us and helped us to find peace.He was always smiling and welcoming. Father Jim will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts.
Louis & Sandra Marin
January 16, 2019
Fr. Jim as an awesome priest and a wonderful human being. Heaven's gain and our lost on earth. Truly enjoyed his sermons and his friendship. He lived live to its fullest and always had a smile. Fr. Jim you will be greatly missed by so many people. Thanks for all that you did for our family. Thank GOD you were able to marry both our children. May you Rest in Peace, my friend.
La Von Kampf
January 16, 2019
We will miss your graciousness and wonderful pastoral care. Thank you for all you have done and for being a mentor for seminarians and newly ordained priest. Rest now.
Robert/Judy Comer
January 16, 2019
Fr Jim was a memorable and wonderful Man of God. His sermons and personal messages of encouragement inspired thousands of his military and parishioners all over the globe. He provided peace and contentment with the messages of the Bible and our Catholic Faith. God hold you in His Arms forever, Good and Faithful Servant.
Margaret Gurtcheff
January 16, 2019
John and I met Father Jim when he came to Fairchild AFB as our Catholic priest 1988-90. He was our priest, but he became a very good friend to us and many others. And he was our neighbor in base housing. Our gatherings were full of good food, drink and fellowship. We shared a love of Golden Retrievers, he had Sam and I had Shammie. The dogs played puppy with each other and we would take them walking along the runway and have deep discussions about life, faith and devotion. He was awesome in so many ways, but best of all he had a way of using his gifts to make people feel comfortable in his company and with the church. He strongly felt the parishes should be the community and not the priest. He allowed the Catholic Community to grow and become stronger with his guidance.
A candle on earth went out on Sunday but a star was born in heaven. His Air Force family will miss him terribly!
David & Nanette Meyer
January 16, 2019
We had the pleasure of having Fr Jim as our pastor in Virginia. He was one of my favorite priests ever! He blessed our marriage on our 25th wedding anniversary back in 2005 & we will never forget him. Rest in peace our sweet brother in Christ! We love & miss you.
Deacon Gene Hansbauer
January 16, 2019
When we lose someone we love and we dont know what to do, we should just pray and worship.
Thank you, God , for their lives, for their love, creativity, for their friendship, their good days and bad, for their happiness and sorrow. Thank You for everything they brought into our lives.
Nelda Angel
January 16, 2019
Father Jim,
You were a wonderful Priest. Thank you for your service to the community and country. You will be missed. May you rest in peace. Ruben and Nelda Angel Family
Kevin Frisbie
January 16, 2019
It is with heavy hearts that my family bids you farewell. You touched each of us deeply and were loved immensely. While all who have ever met you cherish their relationship with you, we know that your service to God was foremost in your heart. Thank you for all youve accomplished with Gods people on earth. Rejoice in your well-deserved reward of Gods loving embrace in your heavenly home. God bless you, my brother.
January 16, 2019
Please accept my condolences for your loss. Grief can be so hard, but the fond memories you cherish can comfort and sustain you during this time. 1 Peter 5:6,7
Sally Quiroga
January 16, 2019
Fr Jim, thank you for being such a wonderful priest! May you rest in peace in God's loving arms. We are certain that God welcomed you with open arms, Good and Faithful servant!!! With Love, The Quiroga Family
Cecilia Anders
January 16, 2019
Father Jim was a great blessing to me and my family. He helped us strengthen our relationship with God. He was not only our Pastor, but a great friend. Father Jim was a inspiration to all of us. He will be greatly missed, but I know that he is in a much greater place. We miss you. Eternal rest grant to you and may the souls of the faithful departed Rest In Peace. My most precious memory was him singing the Our Father . Love you!
Jim Browning
January 15, 2019
Ch, Lt Col Jim Barlow was my boss during a very difficult time in our country. We both served as chaplains at Dover AFB, DE during the time of the 9/11 attacks. He was the senior chaplain and I served as his deputy. He led our team superbly. As a baptist, I learned a great deal about Roman Catholic faith and traditions from him. I had the privilege of planning his military retirement. He embodied servant leadership. We had a LOT of fun together. He loved people and they sure loved him. I know I did! He served his church and our country very well. Welcome home Jim. You will be sorely missed here. Ch, Col (retired) Jim Browning
Michael OCarroll
January 15, 2019
Wonderful Priest. May the Lord welcome him home.
Kara Emmons
January 15, 2019
Thank you for shining your bright light to all you met with your smile and laughter :-) I love you and will miss you! Thank you for coming all the way to NY for my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary in Oct 2018.
Carol Maloney Reyes
January 15, 2019
Fr Jim was and will always be an inspiration for so many of us here in San Antonio.....a devoted and humble priest who embraced his humanity as he walked with friends, those he served, and those he befriended.
God speed!
Carol Maloney Reyes
Becky & Phillip De Leon
January 15, 2019
Fr. Jim was my brothers best friend. My brother is Fr. David Garcia. We always sent Fr. Jim a Christmas card as we just did this past month. He was a wonderful priest and had a great personality, always smiling.
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