Barry Smith passed away peacefully after a long illness on Sunday, August 26, 2018.
Barry was born on April 11, 1947 in Yazoo, Mississippi, at the Afro-American Hospital. Barry was raised by his grandmother, Maggie Smith, whom he called "Momma", alongside his younger brother, Roy Michael Smith. Barry graduated from St. Francis High School in 1965.
From an early age, Barry developed a gift for communicating with those around him. This "Country Boy" carried this "gift of gab" into the military with him. After serving in Vietnam, Barry and Roy moved to Chicago, Illinois, where their younger siblings and mother lived. In Chicago, Barry worked alongside his brother Roy at the United States Post Office and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). Barry's great work ethic and sense of direction eventually led him to a position of leadership as supervisor for the CTA, where he retired after 30+ years of service. Those who knew Barry well, considered him to be a good and trustworthy man.
Barry enjoyed keeping up with current events by reading his newspaper over a hot cup of coffee. Because of this, it made him one of the most interesting men to talk to. His brilliant mind made him a whiz at chess and dominoes; and his quick wit generated laughter as he "talked trash" to all he knew. Barry had an uncanny way of making those around him laugh, especially his family, whom he loved dearly, and wasn't afraid to say it - - "I love you".
Barry is preceded in death by his "Momma", Maggie Smith, mother, Hubertha Hampton and his sister, Deborah Webber. Barry is survived by his children, his brothers, many nieces and nephews, and a host of family members, friends and co-workers whose lives he has touched. Barry will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
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