Barry Ellis Curlee, Sr., age 77, of Brevard, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on January 22, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on April 13, 1947, Barry lived a life marked by service, love, and devotion to those he cared for.

Barry was the son of the late John Paul Curlee and Agnes "Sis" Curlee and the stepson of the late Clarence Ellis Curlee. He was also preceded in death by his daughter Lucinda Curlee, stepbrothers Louis & Edward Curlee, brothers-in-law Philip & Joseph Hamblin, and other cherished family members who went before him.

Barry proudly served his country as a U.S. Navy Corpsman from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War era, completing tours in the Mediterranean Sea and Japan. Following his military service, Barry dedicated himself to his work, notably at DuPont in Brevard, then at Kimberly-Clark in Lexington. Ultimately, he returned to his passion of serving others as a manager at Tore's Home in Brevard, where he worked tirelessly for 18 years to provide compassionate care.

Barry's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Carol Jean Curlee; his daughters, Jennifer Curlee Bridges (Chris), Stefanie Curlee Huffstetler (Chris); his son, Barry Ellis Curlee, Jr. (Jessicah); and his treasured grandchildren: Kristen Saige Huffstetler, Hannah Nicole Anderson (Darren), Joshua David Huffstetler (Kristin), Samuel Ellis Curlee, Olivia Eden Manuel (Cymon), and Sofiah Grace Curlee. He also leaves behind his precious great-grandchildren: Elijah Luke Anderson, Malachi Gregory Anderson, SayDee Lucinda Huffstetler, and Elizabeth Saige Huffstetler.

Barry is also survived by his stepsisters, Doris Curlee Selvage and Brenda Curlee Holden; his first cousins, John and Marty Pressley, who were like brothers to him; his in-laws, Ranynelle Hamblin, John & Paula Baucom, Shelley Hamblin, Mitzi Hamblin, Jim & Tina Hamblin; and many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He loved fishing and spending time outdoors, finding peace and joy in the mountains he called home. He also enjoyed collecting model airplanes and photography.

Barry's legacy of love, service, and devotion to family and community will be honored with a visitation on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A celebration of his life will follow on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Both will be held at Brevard Church of God on McLean St.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made in Barry's memory to a veteran's cause or a charity of your choice, reflecting his lifelong dedication to helping others.

Barry will be so deeply missed by all who knew him, but his love, humor, kindness, and service will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family