Robert Lewis Barrett, 73, passed suddenly in the hospital on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, after years of health struggles, surrounded by his family. He was born Oct. 14, 1950, in Montrose, to Lewis E. and Eleanor Jean (Huff) Barrett, both of whom predeceased him, and spent most of his youth and adulthood in the Washington, D.C., area, with time in Mississippi following relocation of his employer.
Bob graduated from Surrattsville High School in 1968, attended the University of Maryland, and subsequently the U.S. Naval War College. He began work at the Naval Research Lab in Washington at the age of 19 and with a brief stint at NOAA he retired at the age of 48 to his beloved West Virginia. He subsequently began to work as a contractor for various organizations until permanently retiring several years ago. Bob was recognized for his abilities by rising through the ranks to the very top of divisions at NRL, and service to the Navy through commendations and promotion.
In retirement Bob enjoyed nothing more than spending time with the family at the farm in West Virginia, deer hunting season, smoking his cigars on the porch or in the barn, and sitting with his cat or a great-grandchild or two in his lap watching sports or news.
Bob is survived by his wife, Sharon Simmons Barrett; their children, Lisa Millfelt (husband Mike predeceased); grandchildren, Dustin Richard (great-grandchildren Teagan, Wyatt, and John Carter) of West Virginia, and Saxton O’Brien of West Virginia; Chad Lee (Jaime), grandchildren Chad Lee Jr. (predeceased), Kyrstan Lee (predeceased), Jacob (Brianna) Graves and Alexus Lee of MS. He is survived by his son. Marcus Allen Barrett of Md., (grandchildren Kyleigh, Jakob, and Isaiah of West Virginia). Also surviving are his sister, Lois Hessberg (Lee) of S.C.; nephews, Jason Hessberg (Andrea), grandnephew Jimmy and grandniece Natalie of S.C., and Justin Hessberg (Katie) of New York; grandnephew Casey of New York; and several cousins.
Bob was cremated. A memorial service is planned for the spring at the farm to spread his ashes. Final details will be announced at a later date. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences:
www.polingstclair.com
