Joseph (Joe) Wayne Barry, Age 89
Joseph Barry (89) , of Kansas City Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21st 2026, at NorthCare Hospice House surrounded by family.
Joe was born on May 4th 1937 in Portland, TN to Elmer and Irene Barry.
He served in the United States Air Force for 4 years from 1956 until 1959. Upon returning, he met the love of his life, Jimmie (Sue) Elrod, at a YWCA dance in Nashville, TN. They were married on March 17th, 1960. Soon after, he hitchhiked to Miami, FL where he secured his first job in aviation before eventually settling in Kansas City. He worked for TWA and a contract with Saudia Airlines holding various job titles before taking early retirement at age 57. He then went on to own and manage his rental properties.
During his airline career he and Sue traveled extensively.
He was a private pilot from the early 60’s on. He owned many small planes over the years, many of them salvaged which he would restore. He loved hanging out at Roosterville Airport in Liberty, MO with fellow pilots.
He was a jack-of-all-trades kind of guy who could do anything, especially restoring planes, cars, boats, and scooters; even building an A-frame house. He always had side projects going on. He was a scout master when his 3 sons were involved in scouting and the vacations were camping road trips. He was a good hard working man, making sure his family wanted for nothing.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Irene Barry.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Sue. Daughter; Catherine Henion (Scott), Sons; Joe Jr., David, and John Barry. Grandchildren; Leslie Hudnall (David), Lauren Hillman (Ethan), and Spencer Barry. One great-grandchild; Luna Barry.
