Alonzo Barber Jr.

**Obituary for Alonzo Barber, Jr. (May 28, 1950 - April 11, 2025)**

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Alonzo “Al” Barber, Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life on April 11, 2025, in Minden, Louisiana. He was born on May 28, 1950, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Reverend Alonzo Barber, Sr. and Doris Lee Barber Fields. Al was the second of five siblings, sharing his childhood with his brother Mark and sisters Marilyn, Angelia, and Yolanda, as well as his cousin Edmond.

Al's childhood was marked by a vibrant spirit, revealing a passion for sports and academics. His understanding of the importance of education was evident early on. As a young child, it only took one occasion of being afraid to show his parents a bad report card for Al to make sure his grades were stellar from then on. His competitive nature often led him to challenge his older sister for leadership among the siblings, particularly during Wednesday night Bible drills. This close-knit family, known as the “Five Heartbeats,” thrived under Al's care, especially after their father's passing, when he naturally assumed a fatherly role.

He attended Central High School in Kansas City, Missouri, where he developed a reputation for diligence and enthusiasm for learning. Al continued his education at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science.

In the early stages of his career, Al held positions at General Motors in Denver and Hanover Insurance in Los Angeles. He then embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, founding TBL (The Bottom Line) Construction, where his hard work and dedication earned him respect in the construction industry. TBL held major construction contracts with several prominent hotels and businesses in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was undisputedly a leader in his field, which included a successful tenure as national president of the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC).

During his college years, Al met his first wife, Ursula Dean Barber. Together, they shared three children: Alonzo III, Aaron, and Andre. As a father, Al was deeply proud of his children, always celebrating their achievements.

Al’s legacy is further enriched by his six grandchildren: Alonzo John (A.J.), Quincie, Chloe, Jackson, Amare, and Aubrielle. Known fondly as “Grandpa Al,” he cherished his time with them and beamed about each of their special strengths and talents. For them, he was a source of encouragement, wisdom and love.

A man of deep faith, Al accepted Christ at a young age and actively participated as a leader in Sunday School. His Bible was always by his side, reflecting his steadfast commitment to his beliefs and values. Also, Al was an avid sports and music lover who enjoyed cheering onthe Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Lakers and listening to music. Most of all, he loved being present with his family and friends.

Al is survived by his three sons: Alonzo Barber III (Kiaisha), Aaron Glenn Barber (Candace), and Andre Lamar Barber (Nina); six grandchildren: Alonzo John Barber, Quincie Lorraine Barber, Chloe Lenora Barber, Jackson Dean Barber, Amare Darrell-Richard Barber, and Aubrielle Eulah Barber; two sisters: Angelia Y. Reece (Ricky) and Yolanda G. Wallace (Gary); cousin Edmond Bolton; sister-in-law Gail Tipton-Barber; special companion Martha Steele-Wright and a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Reverend Alonzo Barber, Sr., mother, Doris Lee Barber Fields, sister Marilyn A. Hicks, brother-in-law Harold Hicks, and brother Mark A. Barber.

Al will be remembered for his indomitable spirit, wise counsel, and the love he so generously shared with everyone in his life. In Al’s famous words, “This is Not Goodbye, Just See You Later.” A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on May 10, 2025, at Pipkin-Braswell Funeral Services in Denver, Colorado.