After a lifetime spent casting lines and in deer stands, Mark Brian Barber, 57, of Bedford, laid down his rod and bow on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born the youngest of three to Harry E. Barber and Martha L. Barber on July 28, 1968 in Danbury, Connecticut. At age six, he and the family moved from Ridgefield, CT to Virginia where Mark attended Brookville schools.
Mark discovered his passion for hunting and fishing at a young age – showing natural talent that earned him the nickname “The Fish Whisperer.” He was the guy you would find on Smith Mountain Lake before sunrise and at sunset with a rod and joke in hand. No one knew the lake’s honey holes better, and he enjoyed participating in various striped bass competitions as a local. Mark’s larger-than-life personality was impossible to miss, but could easily be seen (and heard!) whenever the Hokies or Vikings took the field.
Beyond his love of the outdoors, nothing meant more to Mark than time with his daughter and being a “Papa” to his granddaughter.
Mark is survived by his mother, Martha; daughter, Amber E. Almond (Nick); granddaughter and the light of his life, Sadie; brother, Scott E. Barber; sister, Wendy A. Cash; cousins; nieces and nephews; treasured buddies; and his puppy, Shiloh. He was predeceased by his father, Harry.
A floating celebration of life will be held from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Elon Ruritan Club, 2120 Elon Rd. Madison Heights VA 24572.
In memory of Mark, we invite you to honor his passion for the outdoors by making donations to the Hunters for the Hungry.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.