Norman Nathaniel Barbee

Norman Nathaniel Barbee was born in Carrboro, North Carolina, on December 22, 1929, to the late Alfred David Barbee, Sr, and Velcie Rogers Barbee. He departed his life on June 4, 2025, after a brief illness, having lived 95 years. Norman was a proud member of the Strayhorn and Barbee family, whose contributions to the community spanned generations.

He attended Lincoln High School and graduated in 1947. He was an avid and enthusiastic reader. He excelled in sports in high school and was also a member of the band. He enjoyed being part of the band and played the trumpet. He attended North Carolina College (now North Carolina Central University) and Howard University, where he earned his BA and Master's Degrees in Art Education. He was known for his intellect, humility, and unshakable commitment to education and excellence. He served in the United States Air Force.

Norman was the family historian on the Barbee family and spent extensive time researching his family’s genealogy and legacy. He was named after his uncle Norman, his grandfather’s brother.

A lifelong learner, Norman was equally passionate about history, politics, and art. He was an outstanding artist, and many of his sketches have been published. He was an adjunct professor at North Carolina A&T University and exhibited many of his pieces in their gallery.

Norman is preceded in death by his parents, brother Alfred David Barbee Jr, and grandson, Danai Barbee. He leaves behind a daughter and three sons, Norman Nathaniel Barbee, Jr., Neola Barbee Jones (Stan), Vincent Barbee (Amy), and Stuart Barbee (Eva); five grandchildren, Dakarai Barbee, Tequida Parrish, Vincent Bradley Barbee, Vimbisai Barbee, and Batanai Barbee; six great-grandchildren Caleb Parrish, Kameron Barbee, Gavin Parrish, Kavion Barbee, Jacob Parrish and Anaishe Barbee; special cousins Lorie Clark and Dolores Clark who was like a sister to him; and other relatives and friends from Carolina Springs Apartment.

Norman’s passions enriched every area of his life. He was an avid reader, researcher, and web surfer. He enjoyed watching all kinds of westerns and detective shows on TV. Gunsmoke and Perry Mason were two of his favorites. He loved spending time with his friends at Carolina Springs, where they formed his extended family and community for over ten years. His humor, thoughtful conversations, and steady presence touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.