Frank Barber

Frank Barber, passed away peacefully on October 17,2026 at the remarkable age of 101. He lived a long and wonderful life as a treasured son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother and friend.

Frank was born on December 23, 1924 in Rochester, NY. He was the oldest of three, born to Joseph and Mary Barber. When he was just 5 years old, his father passed away and his mother was left to raise him along with two younger brothers, Arthur and Joseph. At a young age, he learned the values of perseverance, compassion and integrity. He took pride in taking care of his mother, spending time with her, learning to cook with her, helping out any way that he could. Family was everything.

Frank grew up in the Edgerton/Maplewood neighborhood and graduated from John Marshall High School. He went on to serve our nation with honor in the United States Navy during World War II. Upon returning, Frank met and married the love of his life, Mary, whom he adored. Together, they built a beautiful life that included their two children, Sharon and Frank Jr. He enjoyed taking family trips and creating adventures which he documented through many hours of film and hundreds of pictures. He took great pride in his family and was very proud of his life.

Frank was a hard working man. He spent many years working at Eastman Kodak as a technical illustrator where he showcased his talents as a lifelong learner and innovator. After his retirement, he remained a devoted husband to Mary for 66 years until she passed in 2014. Even after her passing, he would talk about her any chance that he could.

He filled his 101 years with family, dedication and unforgettable stories. He loved to build things - he enjoyed woodworking and building model airplanes. He loved to cook and he LOVED to eat. His mind was sharp as could be, even into his last days. He always kept up with everything that was happening in his family, always asking questions about who was doing what. He would stay up to date with sports, so he was always in the mix at the holiday talks. He loved to share his stories, his wit, his jokes, his laugh. He was loved deeply by everyone that knew him.

People felt connected to him - gravitating towards his quirkiness, his wisdom and his willingness to share his life experiences. Whether it was the waitress at the diner, the bank teller, his nurse, a neighbor…everyone loved Frank. He was simply the best.

Frank is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary Barber, brothers Arthur (Betty) Barber, Joseph (Shirley) Barber, son-in-law, Arthur Spezio and son, Frank Barber Jr. He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Spezio, daughter-in-law, Maria Barber, granddaughters, Christine (Jason) Bunting, Jennette (Jim) Delly, grandsons, Jason, Ryan and Patrick Barber. Frank had 7 great-grandchildren, McKenna (Greer) Leva, Justin (Allie) Bunting, Trevor, Caleb and Brayden Delly, Ellie and Emmy Barber. He was also blessed with one great-great granddaughter before he passed, Scottie Leva.

Frank’s legacy will reflect his unwavering commitment to his family and the principles of hard work, kindness and perseverance. His stories will continue to be shared and cherished - keeping his memories and moments that made him so special alive for many years to come. He will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace…our love and our legend.

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