Barry Randall Elkins, Sr., 85, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on October 3, 2026. He was born in 1941 in Appalachia, Virginia, to Demmer and Lucille Elkins. He was one of six children and was very proud of his Virginia heritage.

Barry graduated from Patterson Cooperative High School and was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He attended Draughon’s Business College as well as the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. He learned to speak Spanish to aid him on his many mission trips to various locations in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. He also participated in mission trips to Russia and Haiti.

Barry was very involved in church life. He served as an ordained minister, elder, Bible teacher, and home group leader, to name just a few of the many roles he held over the years. He loved bowling, golf, drag racing, and restoring old cars.

He was an avid reader, especially of history, though his interests ranged far beyond it. He enjoyed solving puzzles of all kinds and was a talker and storyteller extraordinaire. He loved Jesus and black coffee.

Barry established many friendships throughout his life’s journey and rarely met a stranger, whether through his involvement in the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship, church, mission trips, local restaurants, or his daily quest for coffee. He never hesitated to talk about Jesus Christ or share his patriotism. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Barry is survived by his children, Barry II (Lisa), Danielle (Jesse), and Michelle (Mitch); 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Jim, Kathy, and David; multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a great many friends.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Demmer and Lucille; his siblings, John and Diron; and one grandchild.

Barry’s final resting place will be in Virginia, among family members who have passed on before him.