Brother John E. (Jack) Barr of the Governing Body finished his earthly course on Saturday morning, December 4, 2010, at 97 years of age. Brother Barr had a rich spiritual heritage, and he certainly leaves behind an outstanding name. – Proverbs 22:1

Brother Barr was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, on August 13, 1913, the youngest of three children. In his life story, he spoke with great affection about his early family life and the example set by his parents, both of whom were of the annointed.* Brother Barr was baptized in 1934. A few years later, in April 1939, he entered London Bethel. Thus began a rewarding career in the full-time ministry. In September 1977, he was invited to become a member of the Governing Body, an assignment he accepted in faith and carried out with humility of heart that was evident to all.

 

On October 29, 1960, Brother Barr entered what he called “an especially precious relationship.” On that date he married Mildred Willet, a longtime zealous pioneer and missionary. Mildred finished her earthly course in October of 2004. Although deeply grieved, Brother Barr endured the loss with dignity and faith.

For those who knew him, the name Jack Barr will bring to mind not only his accomplishements but also his qualities. We will think of his ready smile, filled with joy and an ever-youthful love of laughter; of the open office door and the words, “Please come in!” spoken warmly regardless of the load of work on his desk; of the profound humility of a man always ready to listen empathetically and to consider a point of view that differed from his own; of careful, thoughtful advice – always balanced, always kind, and rooted in Scripture; of the brisk walk and energetic manner, the ready eagerness to plunge into the work at hand; of the loving husband who took such tender care of his wife even as her health failed; of the devoted brother who faithfully wrote his sister, Louie, every week until her death in the same year he lost Mildred; and above all, of the heartfelt love for Jehovah, his inspired Word, and Jehovah’s people everywhere.

While we will miss Brother Barr dearly, we rejoice with him in his victory, for he set a sterling example of integrity and loyalty. Without a doubt, he slept for but a moment in death and has now received his heavenly reward and his Father’s approval – all he ever wanted!