Cynthia Sherry Barber

Our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Cynthia Sherrell Kent "Sherry" Barber, 71, of Alford, Florida, passed away on September 3, 2026, at Jackson Hospital in Marianna after an extended illness. She was a lifelong resident of Alford, Florida and the daughter of the late Tolbert and Willie Shores Kent. She graduated from Cottondale High School and later attended training for accounting and bookkeeping. Sherry was a dedicated homemaker and devoted farm wife who took great pride in caring for her family and assisting with the work on their family farm. She found joy in the simple and meaningful traditions of Country Life, especially tending to the family garden, canning, preserving vegetables, and preparing meals that brought loved ones together around the table. Her home was a place of love and hospitality, and she treasured every opportunity to care for those around her. Sherry was deeply rooted in her family, her community, and her faith.

She was a loving wife to her husband of fifty-three years, Wayne Barber; cherished mother to her only daughter, Amanda (Jeremy) Mutz; and beloved grandmother to her three grandsons Ryder Hinson, Colton Hinson, and Levi Mutz. Her grandsons were the light of her life and she loved nothing more than cheering them on in all they participated in. She could often be found at their baseball games, watching them proudly at livestock shows, and celebrating their every accomplishment along the way. When she could no longer attend in person, she faithfully followed their activities online, continuing to support and encourage them. She was an active member of White Pond Baptist Church. She also treasured talking on the telephone with her many friends and family members, staying close to the people who meant so much to her, including cousins Ginger Hiley and Sarah Swearingen, and friend, Bernice Carter.

The family would also like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Jackson Hospital, Centerwell Home Health, and Dr. John Spence for the care, compassion and kindness shown to Sherry and her family throughout the illness. The family also sends heartfelt gratitude to Stethoscope Staffing caregivers Leslie Springer and Mindy Purecka, who brought comfort and peace to her home. Many thanks are also expressed to neighbor (farm brother) Lewis Hamm. Sherry was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Sherry’s life at 11 AM Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at White Pond Baptist Church in Alford, Florida. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. 

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at White Pond Baptist Church.