Gerald O'Barr - Obituary

erald O’Barr, 87, of Bowie, MD passed away on January 18, 2025 following several months of illness. Born in Hartwell, GA, he was the youngest son of the late Vivian Lee O’Barr and the late Willie Mae Welborn. Following graduation from Hart County High School, he joined the U.S. Army, serving in Korea. After leaving the service, he moved to the Washington, D.C. area. In 1964, he married Patricia Alice Larkin, and they had two children, Michael Edward and Shannon Colleen. In 1973, Gerald and Patricia started O’Barr Construction, a family business still thriving today. He was a member of Collington Masonic Lodge No. 230 in Bowie and was Master of the Lodge in 1986. He was a passionate gardener, and his tomatoes, corn, cantaloupe, green beans and watermelon were second to none. He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Patricia, his son Michael (Janice), his daughter Shannon O’Barr Sausville (Edward), his granddaughter Brooke Leidy (Brett), his grandsons Sean (Michaala) and Joseph (Chelsea Coon), his stepgranddaughter Nicole Decker (Michael Knight), his great-grandchildren Austin, Louella and Seamus, his stepgreat-grandchildren Grace, Michael and Noah, his niece Tammy and his nephews Craig and Chris. He was preceded in death by his brothers Artis Lee, John Clayton and Harold and his nephew Artis Scott. Cremation and interment will be private. A future celebration of life will be planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the VFW or the American Heart Association. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.