Don Barbee

Don Lamar Barbee of Cleburne passed away Sunday, May 15, 2016 at the age of 79. He was born March 12, 1937 in Cleburne, Texas to Velma Hill Barbee and J. L. “Jimmy” Barbee who preceded him in death.

He was a cattle rancher, starting a long career in cattle breeding in the late 60’s with American Breeders Service. He worked as an American Breeders Service Representative until his death. Throughout his career he received many honors related to the cattle industry including several National Recognition Awards from American Breeders Service, numerous awards as Representative of the Year and the Quarter Century Award for devoted service in livestock improvement from the National Association of Animal Breeders.

He was very proud of his home, the old Barbee family place in Cleburne, being designated as a Family Land Heritage Farm by the State of Texas in 2013. The family place was established in 1912 by his grandparents and has been an ongoing farming operation for over 100 years.

When he wasn't tending the cattle he loved being on the water fishing, spending time with his brothers golfing, watching old westerns with the family and playing spades and chess with his adult grandchildren.

He met and married his high school sweetheart Karen Bellinger in Joshua, in 1956 and she survives him along with children, Debbie Barbee Brock of Alvord, Tim Barbee of Alvarado, Vicki Barbee Isaacks and son in law Bruce Isaacks of Sanger. He is also survived by brothers, Dale Barbee and James Barbee, grandchildren, Megan Barbee, Kristin Brock, Amanda Brock, David Isaacks, Adam Isaacks and granddaughter in law Kacie Isaacks, one great granddaughter and soon to arrive twin great grandsons as well as numerous nieces and great nieces and nephews. Brother Glen Barbee preceded him in death.

Visitation will be at Rosser Funeral Home in Cleburne at 1:00 pm on Wednesday May 18 with a memorial service immediately after beginning at 2:00 pm. The burial service will be held at Cleburne Memorial.