Remembering Michael Barber

by Charley Conrad

Michael Barber, a long-time LGBTQ Democratic activist, died peacefully on Palm Sunday, April 13th.

Leukemia challenged Michael for several years.

I know Michael touched the lives of many people in our community. And for me, his wise counsel will surely be missed.

Michael and I talked frequently on the phone. He was a mentor to me when I began my involvement in political activism in 2000, focusing on LGBTQ+ causes. Michael Barber was very supportive of our caucus. He was the Tidewater Chair for many years. I stand on Michael Barber‘s shoulders today, as I have been actively involved in Democratic politics ever since 2000. I now live in Arlington, but Michael always seemed close by. And anytime I needed his help, he was there for me. He drove up to help me purchase my condo, which I have lived in for almost 20 years.

And the last time I saw Michael Barber in person was on September 20, 2022. I was in the Tidewater area campaigning. We set aside an afternoon and had a very long, leisurely lunch at Baker’s Crust in Ghent in Norfolk. I am sure we were in there for at least three hours. And we talked, laughed, and reminisced about the times we had, where we were going, and what we could do to further causes near and dear to our hearts. We ate well. When we finished our long lunch, we walked out into the parking lot, and the last thing we said to each other was that we loved each other. When I think about Michael Barber, that is the word that comes to mind: LOVE.

Celebration of life

A celebration of Michael Barber’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 7 @ 2:00 PM by Berceuse Family and Cremation Traditions located at:

2609 Cunningham Drive, Hampton, VA 23666

Interment will be private

In lieu of flowers, Michael has asked for donations to the ACLU of Virginia.

May he rest in peace.