Ernest James Barbee

Born November 8, 1943, in Columbia, Ernie was the son of the late James H. and Joyce (Stanley) Barbee. After losing both parents at a young age, Ernie was lovingly raised by his grandparents, Percy Harry Barbee and Edna O Hollister Barbee, who helped shape the kind, hardworking man he became.

Ernie was a true son of Columbia. Born at Boone County Hospital, attended Columbia Public Schools and graduated from Hickman High School in 1961. He took classes at the University of Missouri until starting his professional career.

Ernie’s father was working at Ernie’s Cafe & Steak House on E. Walnut when Ernie was born. His father and Ernie Lewis, who was the owner, were really good friends. Ernie is named after the founder of Ernie’s Cafe & Steak House.

A dedicated public servant, Ernie began his career in March 1963 with the City of Columbia in the Public Works Department. One of his former coworkers said he was called “Big Ern and was a great poker player”.

In February 1965 Ernie became a patrolman with the Columbia Missouri Police Department. With grit, integrity, and a steady presence he worked his way up; Corporal, Sergeant, Captain, Deputy Chief and in July 1988 Chief. He served in that role until his retirement in April 1997. But, retirement didn’t slow Ernie down, he later joined the University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics as Manager of the Security Department in December 1999 until May 2008. Ernie even was a part-time employee at MUPD for several years.

He graduated from the FBI National Academy, Session 137, June 1984. He is a lifetime member of the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc, reflecting the respect he earned throughout his career.

Ernie also had an entrepreneurial and helping spirit as he continued his grandmother’s side business, Barbee tax Service, that still lives on today as Barbee-Hinshaw Tax Service, a testament to his dedication and hard work.

On April 4, 1991, Ernie married the love of his life, Kay Frentzel. She survives him at their home in Columbia. Ernie also leaves behind a loving family who meant the world to him: his children, Phil Barbee (Christy) of Columbia; Heather Barbee Eravi (Ralph) of Spartanburg, South Carolina; and Chris Barbee (Sara Heigaard) of Knoxville, Tennessee. Ben Strawn (Colleen Morey), of Denver, Colorado, half sibling to his children from his first marriage who became like a son to him as he grew up alongside the other kids.

He was a proud grandfather to Grace Elfrink (Jeff) of Columbia; Jack Mueth (Brooke) of Lee’s Summit; and Amy Heigaard-Barbee of Knoxville. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Waylon and Wyatt Elfrink, who brought him joy in his later years.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents Edna and Percy Barbee, his brother Eddie Barbee, his Uncle Bill Barbee and his first wife, Charlotte Ann Harvey.

Those who knew Ernie will remember his sharp wit and the way his laughter could fill a room. He passed that sense of humor on to his children, who continue to carry it proudly. He had a passion for motorcycle rides with his buddies, cheering on the Cardinals and the Chiefs, and—most of all—bass fishing. Whether it was with the Little Dixie Bass Club or the Ozark Mountain Bass Club, Ernie found peace and joy out on the water.

A celebration of Ernie’s life will be held on November 14 at the Elks lodge from 4pm - 8pm, where family and friends can gather to share stories, laughter, and memories of a life well lived. The family asks that you honor Ernie by casting a line in your favorite fishing spot, telling a good joke, or simply spending time with those you love—just as he would have wanted.

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri or Columbia, Mo. Meals on Wheels.