Barry L. James, 85, of Leesport, passed away in his residence on Thursday, March 28, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Carol A. (Melanson) James. They were married on November 29, 1958 and celebrated sixty-five years of marriage.

Born in Ontelaunee Twp., he was the son of the late Alma L. (James) Behlor. Barry was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He worked as a truck driver for forty-five years for Lentz, Branch, and Textile Chemical, which then became Brenntag, until his retirement. Barry was a member of the Leesport and Shoemakersville Fire Companies. At one time, he worked at the Leesport Auction and enjoyed going there. He especially enjoyed working on the farm and was a tractor enthusiast. Barry was a Philadelphia Phillies and NASCAR fan. He enjoyed going to BlueGrass and Country music festivals, backyard gigs, and spending time with his grandkids and great-grandchildren attending races and sporting events.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his sons: Douglas E. James, fiance of Kim Mong, Warren, PA; Matthew P. James, husband of Sue, Centre Twp.; and Dustin T. "Duke" James, husband of Monica, Centre Twp.; and daughter Terri; nine grandchildren: Derek James (Sarah), Kyle James (Leah), Lukas James, Demi James, Zoey James, Carley James, Megan James, Shianne James, and Shelby (James) wife of Nick Brett; and eight great-grandchildren: Dalton, Seth, Evelyn, Rylee, Lathan, Keenan, Kullen and Aurora.

Services will be on Friday at 11:00 am from Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 223 Peach Street, Leesport. Burial with military honors will follow in Leesport Cemetery. A viewing will be held in the funeral home Friday 10:00 to 11:00 am. Those attending the service for Barry are asked to wear Phillies or casual attire. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Union Fire Company of Leesport, P.O. Box 777, Leesport, PA 19533 or Northern Berks EMS, P.O. Box 625, Leesport, PA 19533. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.