Bob Barney
My tribute to my brother, Victor L. Barney Jr., who passed away at the age of 77 on November 6th. Named after our father Vic Barney Sr, Vicky as we called him was a Vietnam Veteran, and carried forward a legacy of service to God. His story is not one that will dominate national headlines—but it is the kind of story that quietly shaped my early life. He was my older brother and in many ways a mentor, who was there to protect me when I needed protection.
Photo From 1981 Me (Bob Barney on left) Vick sporting a beard on the right
Vic earned a degree in psychology and went on to serve in public roles across both New York and North Carolina, dedicating more than 35 years to state service. He is remember as steady and reliable, a man who approached his work with both intelligence and heart. Although we were very different, Vic being very handsome an outgoing, we had a special relationship, which memories I cherish.
A committed believer in Jesus Christ, Vic’s faith was central to who he was. In 1979, when I came to believe in the faith I have today, Vic was the first to believe along with me, we went to the very first Sabbath Church together in Passover time of 1979.
He was also strikingly handsome—bearing an uncanny resemblance to actor William Shatner—and it didn’t go unnoticed. In his younger years, girls gravitated toward him with an ease that made for more than a few family stories. But behind the charm was a man regarded first for his character: a big brother in every sense of the word, protective, different in his own ways, yet unfailingly present.
In the past decade, Vic faced the difficult decline brought on by dementia, a struggle shared by many families across the country. Despite this, the essence of who he was, his kindness, his faith, his steady spirit—remained known to those closest to him. His wife’s son Wayne (from an earlier marriage who thought of Vic as his own dad) indicated that he passed away due to heart failure or a stroke.
His absence leaves a quiet but profound space in my heart. And yet, for those who loved him, there is hope grounded in the faith he held so firmly: that this goodbye is not final, and that one day, at the return of Christ and the awakening of the saints, reunion will replace loss.
In the days and months ahead, more memories will undoubtedly be added. Personal stories, glimpses of the man behind the name, and reflections that widen the understanding of a life well lived. For now, I remember my brother and brother in Christ-Victor L. Barney Jr.— brother, believer, and public servant. A man whose legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him best.
I miss you already…