Kenneth Ormond Barbee

Kenneth Ormond Barbee passed peacefully on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 with his loving and devoted wife Shirley by his side. Kenneth was born on July 13, 1938 in Onslow County to Ormond and Catherine Barbee. Kenneth was devoted to his family and beloved by many.

He is survived by his mother, Catherine Basden Barbee, his wife of twelve years, Shirley Keel Barbee, stepson Ricky (Debbie) Knowles of Richlands, step-grandson Chad Knowles of Richlands, great-great niece and nephew, Autumn and James Keel of the home, brothers Craig (Elaine) of Richlands, Neil (Faye) of Beulaville, sister-in-law Darlene Barbee of Richlands, brother-in-law Roy (Judy) Keel of New Bern, sister-in-law Kristye Holt of Richlands, and many nieces and nephews along with a large extended family of friends.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Carolyn Chadwick Barbee, father, Ormond Barbee, and his baby brother, Reid Barbee. Kenneth proudly served his country for four years in the United States Air Force. From an early age he loved the land and as a result, enjoyed many years of farming. His interest in local government led to him becoming a magistrate for Onslow County and retiring after twenty-five years of service. Kenneth will be missed by his family, countless friends and many relatives.

A celebration of his life will be on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Richlands United Methodist Church presided by Reverend Michael (Mike) Nelson and Kenneth's uncle, Reverend Volney Bryan. Visitation will be at 11:00 a.m. with the service to follow at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at the Barbee Family Cemetery on Koonce Fork Road, Richlands, NC.

Condolences may be made at www.johnsonfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements by Johnson Funeral Home, Richlands.