Errol Brown Barber

Errol Brown Barber, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community member, passed away on November 12, 2024, at the age of 78. Errol was born on December 8, 1945, in Tyler, Texas, to Billy Brown Barber and Helen Prestridge Barber. He lived a life marked by dedication to his family, community, and his passions, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and unwavering faith.

Errol attended Byrd High School in Shreveport and then onto Baylor and then Southern Methodist University (SMU). He is a proud graduate of SMU where he earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering, a field that laid the foundation for a successful career. His first job after graduation was with Ford in Dearborn Michigan, where he was able to test cars on the racetrack. He had to leave Ford because we was called to service in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1970-1972. After his service ended, he and his wife moved to their hometown, in the Dallas area, where he worked in sales. Soon, he realized he wanted to start his own business so he chose Mineola to open Mineola Motor Supply & Auto Parts, which was a successful business for many years. Errol's knowledge of cars and his commitment to his business made him a respected figure in the community for many years. He also owns Mineola Rentals and enjoyed investing in real estate and rental property.

Errol's life was also shaped by his faith. He was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Mineola for over 45 years, where he served in various capacities and was a constant source of support to others. He was also an active member of several civic and fraternal organizations, including the Gideons, Model A Club, Flathead V8 Club, and the Classic Car Club. He had a passion for working on cars, and it wasn’t unusual to see him tinkering with an engine or sharing his expertise with friends and fellow car enthusiasts. Errol was not the best at relaxing, so when he wasn’t tinkering with cars, he was fixing things around the house, riding on his tractor and cleaning up his farm.

Errol and his wife, Kay Blackwood Barber, were married on January 5, 1970 at Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas. Together, they shared a love of travel and adventure, spending most of their summers in Lake City, Colorado—a tradition that became a cherished part of their family life. They have been visiting Lake City during the summers for 25 years and were a member of the FBC in Lake City. He and his wife Kay went on several mission trips to Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and England. Errol’s deep love for his family was evident in all he did, and he took great joy in spending time with his daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. He also enjoyed “meet and eats” with his family and friends from church, car club and Colorado.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kay Barber of Mineola; daughters Koni Riley and husband Keith of Mineola, and Kristi Hipke of Bullard; brother, David Barber and wife Angela of Canton; and five grandchildren: Kapri Riley, Keilee Riley, Kozbie Riley-Kalenak and her husband Gage, Savannah Hipke, and Charleston Hipke; nieces Charly Dannis, Jillian Barber-Day and nephew Dutch Dannis .

A man of integrity and humor, Errol/Dad/Baboo/Big “E” will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, Daddy Bear hugs and the joy he found in simple moments with those he loved. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gideons International in his honor. Errol was a devoted member for 30 years. (tab below)

Errol is now at rest, but his spirit and impact on those he touched will remain forever. We know he is rejoicing in heaven with those that went before him and they are welcoming him home.

“Truly I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.” John 5:24

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