Irvin Eugene "Gene" Barber was born November 17, 1933, in Hydro, Oklahoma to Irvin Charles and Nettie Emmaline (Norris) Barber and passed away Monday, August 26, 2019, at Willowood Assisted Living in Mustang, Oklahoma, at the age of 85 years, 9 months, and 9 days.

Gene was raised and attended school in Hydro where he graduated with the Class of 1951. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1954. Upon returning from his time in the service, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from Southwestern State College in 1958. On February 26, 1955, Gene married Mary Gertrude Richardson, by her father, in Weatherford. He worked for the State Highway Department – Transportation Division. Gene served as an engineer where he was head of research and development. He later was Assistant Division Engineer in Antlers, Oklahoma and retired in 1988. Gene and Mary returned to the Hydro area where he started Barber Engineering doing consulting work. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends.

Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Barber of their home in Mustang, Oklahoma; three sons, Preston Gene Barber and wife, LeTricia of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Ron Barber of Mustang, Oklahoma, and Loyal Charles Barber and wife, Tammie of Lewisville, Texas; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Zelma Lee.