James Quincy “Jack” Barfield, age 86, passed from this life on Saturday, April 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a very blessed life. He was born in Chipley, Florida, on March 1, 1939, to Preston Roland and Flora Belle “Barkley” Barfield.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John Henry Barfield and Preston Roland Barfield Jr.; and three sisters, Bonnie “Louise” Barfield, Helen Ann Moore, and Shirley Jean Sanford.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Evelyn Barfield of Chipley, FL; his son, James Thomas Barfield (Nan) of Marianna, FL; two daughters, Bonnie Louise Smith (Robert) and Martha Kaye Compton (Andy), both of Chipley, FL; two sisters, Eloise Hill of Sneads, FL, and Hazel Ann Barfield of Orlando, FL; seven grandchildren, Kevin Christopher Smith (Casey), James Thomas “Jamie” Barfield II (Maddy), Michael Jamison Smith, Ryan Dallas Smith (Meagan), Cody Brandon Barfield (Chelsea), Sara Kaye Givens, and Kaci Elizabeth Compton; three great-grandchildren, James Thomas “JT” Barfield III, Rory Dallas Smith, and Bennett Robert Barfield; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
A true “Jack of all trades,” he wore that title with pride. Jack came from humble beginnings and lived a tough life. Raised with little, he learned early on how to stretch a dollar, work with his hands, and make something out of nothing. He was rich in the things that mattered most — faith, family, and love. He built a life rooted in those values and leaves behind a legacy that will live on in those who knew him best.
Jack was most proud of his children and of being called “Papa” by the grandchildren. As the head of his household, he led by example — teaching his family the value of hard work and the importance of keeping your word. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.
He was proud, strong, and tough — the kind of man who stood firm in his convictions. Jack believed in doing things right and doing them yourself if you had to. His strength was matched only by his loyalty to family and his deep sense of responsibility. Though he had a hard edge, his heart overflowed with love for those he held dear.
A private family service will be held to honor the life and legacy of Jack Barfield.
