Eugene "Gene" Barbour

Four Oaks, NC:  Mr. Eugene Rhodes “Gene” Barbour, age 78, passed away peacefully with his daughters by his side on Sunday, January 24, 2021. Graveside Funeral Services will be held Friday, January, 29, at 1:00 pm at Pauline Baptist Church Cemetery, Four Oaks, NC.  Rev. David Sutphin will officiate.             Gene was born on September 19, 1942 in Cumberland County to Eugene Pershing and Mary Erma Rhodes Barbour. Upon graduating from high school, Gene attended the Durham Institute of Barbering graduating in August, 1964.  After receiving his barber license, he began working as a barber in Smithfield, NC, at the Market Plaza Shopping Center and part-time as a barber at Seymour Johnson AFB. In May, 1967, Gene opened the Southside Barbershop with his long-time business associate and friend of 54 years, Roy Woodard.  They were awarded the honor of being named the best 2-chair barbershop in NC by the Roffler Family Hair Care Center. Many of their long-time clients certainly agree that they were more than deserving of such an accolade.             Among his many interests, Gene enjoyed attending estate auctions, the thrill of deep-sea fishing, and the peacefulness of fishing in his own pond.  He had also enjoyed hunting until an unceremonious tumble from a deer stand gave him second thoughts as to whether or not this was a good use of his time. A man of deep faith and strong devotion to God, Gene loved teaching Sunday school and speaking at his second home, Corinth United Methodist Church. Gene most loved spending time with his family, especially his grandson, Braxton, who brought him great joy. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend.  It was an honor to call him Dad. He will be greatly missed by his clients, friends and family for his steadfast devotion, generosity and mischievous sense of humor. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Don Barbour.             Gene is survived by his wife of 58 years, Dixie Thornton Barbour; daughters, Tammy Liles and husband, David, and Pam Creech and husband, Avis; grandson, Braxton Creech; brother, Danny Barbour; many loving nieces and nephews.               There will be an open door closed casket visitation on Thursday, January 28, 2021, from 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm at Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Four Oaks. The family will not be present during this time.             In accordance with NC-COVID19 guidelines, the funeral home suggests practicing social distancing and the three W's: wait, wash, and wear a face covering. Mask are required for all services.              Flowers are greatly appreciated; however, memorial contributions may be sent to Corinth United Methodist Church, c/o Beverly Gibson, 1286D Thompson Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524 or to your favorite charity.             The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.             Arrangements by Rose and Graham Funeral Home in Four Oaks, NC.