Rick Barbour

Born in Dunn, North Carolina, Rick's family moved to Raleigh shortly after his birth. He graduated from Millbrook High School in 1966 and went on to earn a degree in Education from East Carolina University in 1971. A devoted Pirate throughout his life, Rick was always proud that his name began with "ARRRRR!"

Rick dedicated his career to education and professional development. He served as an educator and trainer with Carolina Power & Light (now Duke Energy) and later with the Edison Electric Institute in Washington, D.C. He eventually became an independent consultant, teaching leadership and professional development courses for Fortune 500 companies across the United States and around the world. A gifted instructor with a warm and engaging style, Rick remained in high demand until his retirement.

Never one to stop serving others, Rick found a new calling in retirement working part-time with Brown-Wynne Funeral Home. This role was a natural extension of the compassionate service he had already given for many years as volunteer chair of the Bereavement Team at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, where he served alongside his wife, Emily.

Rick treasured time with his family. He found joy in working in his yard, playing golf, and relaxing with a fine cigar and a cold beer.

Those who knew Rick often described him as the quintessential Southern gentleman. The words spoken to the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz beautifully capture the spirit of the man he was: "Remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others." Few people embodied that sentiment more fully than Rick. He greeted others with kindness, generosity, and genuine warmth. He was often the first to offer a hug, the first to share a compliment, and never hesitated to tell those around him that he loved them. He made everyone feel seen, valued, and welcome, and his caring presence left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Fannie Grace Ennis Barbour and Willard Vasco Barbour.

He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Emily Aldrich Barbour of Raleigh; his sister, Dail Callahan (Marc) of Winston-Salem; his daughter, Stephanie Leigh Kurak; and his son, Jason Willard Barbour of Raleigh; and his four beloved grandchildren, Savannah Leigh Kurak, Jacob Michael Kurak, Brantley Willard Barbour, and Georgia Lynne Barbour.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Agnes Banya, whose loving care and compassion meant so much to Rick and his family in recent years.

A celebration of Rick's life will be held at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with a visitation immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Road, Raleigh, NC 27608 or Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607, in honor of Rick.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Barbour family.