Jay Barbee

Jay Barbee, 68, of Higgins passed away Saturday, May 15, 2021 in Canadian.

Celebration of Life and Military Graveside Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, May 22, 2021, at the Higgins Cemetery with Brother Philip Hilton, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Canadian.

J.G. Barbee III was born July 11, 1952 in Tulia to Jack and Betty Barbee.  Jay served his country with the US Navy, receiving the National Defense Service Medal.  Jay married Judy Detrixhe and they were together for 43 years.  He was a member of the Higgins First Baptist Church, The Higgins Volunteer Fire Department and was an EMT, he was also a member of the Kevin A. Stout American Legion Post 509, and the Pampa VFW Chapter.  Jay was proud and honored to ride with “HOG” Honor Rides in honor of Veterans.  He participated in an Honor Flight to Washington DC.  As a Volunteer with the Higgins Fire Department, Jay was instrumental in starting the first Fire & Rescue Training School.

Jay was talented in woodworking, knife and jewelry making and creating rustic furniture.  He was a truck driver in the Oilfield and later as an owner operator drove cross country. Jay enjoyed his Harley-Davidson Trike and surprised a granddaughter by picking her up at school on his trike.  He was present for his family and wanted the very best for them.  His family was quick to say, “he never met a stranger”, which made him a great Wal-Mart greeter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Betty Barbee; siblings, James “Turnip” Barbee and Kelly Bray; Father-in-Law, Edward Detrixhe and a nephew, Josh Habekott.

Survivors include wife, Judy Barbee of Higgins; son, John Barbee and wife Cherri of Forney; two daughters: Carla Watson and husband Jason of Higgins and Vanessa Barbee and Justin Burley of Follett; eleven grandchildren: Lauren, Allison, Cierra, Cara, Cora Jayden, Jace, Jax, Janessa, Jayd and Laramye; siblings: Sue Fellers, Jackie Gamble and husband Dan, Matt Barbee and Lisa Whisenhunt; mother-in-law, Ima Detrixhe; sisters-in-law, Rita Thompson and husband Randy, Nancy Habekott and husband Roger; brother-in-law, Phil Detrixhe; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Memorials may be made to Higgins Hog Roast, PO Box 248, Higgins, TX 79046; Higgins Fire Dept., PO Box 23, Higgins, TX 79046; and The Hemphill County Hospice, 1020 S. 4^th St., Canadian, TX 79014