James Joseph Barber

James Joseph Barber

May 3, 1933- January 8, 2025

Dr. James “JB, Jim, Jimmy, and Jas” Barber of Albuquerque, NM passed away peacefully after a brief illness at the age of 91 surrounded by loving family and friends. Born in Harrisburg, PA to Joseph Barber and Eva Torchia Barber. James started playing the violin at the age of 8. He received the B.M., M.M., Performer’s Certificate and D.M.A. from the Eastman School of Music. He served as a Staff Sargent in the United State Marine Band in Washington D.C., playing both violin and clarinet, from 1953 to 1957. James performed in the White House for presidents, legislators, judges, royalty and foreign dignitaries as well as in parades and military funerals. An outstanding concert violinist and teacher, James served on the faculties of Furman University, Baylor University, and Texas Tech University where he was named Professor Emeritus in 1995.

James enjoyed good food and wine, baking bread, photography, leatherworking, woodworking, hiking, fishing, and traveling the world, especially seeing America’s National Parks. An avid reader, James enjoyed biographies of great American leaders and WWII history as well as watching WWII movies.

James is survived by his wife of 51 years, Barbara Barber of Albuquerque; his daughter's, Robin Barber of Weatherford, TX, and Lisa Barber of Albuquerque, NM; his grandsons, Brandon Barber of Austin, TX, Travis Barber of Dallas, TX, and Tyrin Barber of Albuquerque, NM; and his faithful furry friends, Tico and Hazel. He was preceded in death by son, David Barber of Lubbock, TX.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.