James H. "Jim" Barber age 80 of Nixa passed away early Wednesday morning April 1, 2009 in his home. Those who knew and loved Jim are familiar with his very creative sense of humor and his love of practical jokes. It seems only fitting that his passing occured on April Fool's Day. He was born on the fourth of July 1928 in Springfield to Herschel and Sarah Jones Barber. He was a graduate of Springfield Senior High where he played football. He attended SMSU and served his country in the U.S. Army and in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He worked in sales for Springfield Tablet Co. and as a department manager for Cranks Drug Stores before starting Jim Barber Advertising in 1979. Jim was married to Katy Ralls Barber on May 20,1956. She preceded him in death on June 14, 2000. He was also preceded in death by his parents. His only child, and #1 son, Kent passed away on June 18, 2007, and his sister Irene Gillespie earlier this year. When he wasn't working, Jim loved to vacation by taking long road trips with Katy by his side, and Kent car sick in the back seat. Jim had many interests and was always tinkering with something. Music was very dear to him, especially Dixieland Jazz. He had quite a collection of instruments, all of which he taught himself to play. He was never without some type of boat to go fishing in either. He also loved to cook and won numerous trophies in the Chili Cook Off, and various BBQ contests. It wasn't just about the food, showmanship was important too, and he was the master at that. He will be dearly missed by all that were priveledged to have known him. Godspeed Grandad. Play on...and tell Dad we love him. He is survived by his favorite grandson, Mitch, his favorite granddaughter, Maggie, and his favorite daughter-in-law, Jamie. A special thank you to his Hospice Team (Dr. Dahlberg, Tami, Tonya, and Debbie), and to all of his special friends at Autumn Corners. Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 6, 2009, at King's Way United Methodist Church with the Reverend Jon Spalding officiating, under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Inurnment will be in King's Way Garden Columbarium. Family requests that memorials be made to Access Hospice, 800 State Highway 248 #B, Branson, Mo. 65616, or the American Heart Association, 2446 E. Madrid, Springfield, Mo.65804.