Kevin R. Barry

Born on September 5, 1952 on Long Island, New York, he was a devoted husband to Diane Barry, a loving father to Katherine Fraser, Ryan Barry, Allison Magnuson, and Lauren Thedieck, and a proud Pops to 9 grandchildren (Owen, Emerson, Brayden, Jameson, Matthew, Hailey, Emma, Landon, and Samuel).

Kevin was known to carry a warmth of Ireland’s rolling hills and a deep love of family wherever he went.

Kevin’s parents were both born and raised in Ireland, and he grew up in a traditional Irish Catholic home where Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition.

In New York, you could either find him on Long Beach surfing or playing high school football, which is where he met the love of his life, Diane.

Kevin then went on to have a successful 30-year career at IBM, a role that allowed him to travel the world and experience many different cultures and cuisines.

One of the areas of his life that he cherished the most was the time he spent with his family. Without fail, he would always choose a beach destination where his toes could touch the sand.

Being by the beach was his kind of paradise. Whether it was reading his favorite book under the sun or unwinding with a beverage in hand, the beach was his sanctuary.

He believed that life was best lived in simple pleasures: good food, great company, lots of laughter…and the soothing sounds of the ocean.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 8, at 1pm inside the Ridge Room at North Ridge Country Club (6612 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC). In lieu of flowers, the family wishes you leave memories and condolences through text or email to Kevin’s family.

Kevin’s Favorite Irish Blessing:

“May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of his hand.”

We will miss you Pops.

Slainte