Hervey Barbour

Hervey Spencer Mowbray Barbour, known affectionately as Hervey to his loved ones, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on March 18, 1941, in Buchanan, Michigan, to Ray and Mary Ellen (Mowbray) Barbour.  Hervey's life was marked by his ingenuity, adventurous spirit, and the deep love he held for his family and friends.

Hervey was a proud graduate of Buchanan High School class of 1959 in Buchanan, Michigan, where he first demonstrated his knack for engineering and mechanics. After high school, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force as a missle technician. He was on a missle site during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  Following his military service, Hervey embarked on a successful career as a foundry engineer, dedicating many years of service to Grede Foundry, Gardner Denver, Pryor Foundry and American Castings. His work ethic and expertise were well-respected by colleagues and peers alike. Hervey married Janice Kay Hemphill on September 5, 1970, in Olatha, Kansas making their home in Wichita, Kansas, Michigan, Pryor, OK for 38 years and Tulsa for the past 9 years.

Outside of his professional life, Hervey was a man of many talents and interests. His passion for aviation never waned; he was an accomplished pilot and enjoyed racing stock cars, proudly bearing the number 42. His love for flight extended to the skies in more ways than one, as he found joy in flying drones, a hobby that combined his love for technology and the great outdoors.

Hervey's creativity and technical skills were evident in his personal projects. In the home in Pryor he had an eleven ranked organ of which one rank is now in the theatre organ in Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City.  Later he built a virtual organ, a testament to his musical appreciation and technical prowess. Hervey was a long time member of the Sooner State Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society. He was one of the technicians for the chapter and work on the Chapter's organ housed on Tulsa Tech Campus in Broken Arrow, This project was just one example of his ability to blend artistry with engineering. Hervey also constructed a television set from scratch, showcasing his ability to innovate and create.

Traveling was another of Hervey's pleasures. He relished the opportunity to explore new places and cultures, always seeking out the next adventure. Yet, no matter how far he roamed, he found his greatest joy in the company of his beloved wife, Janice, and his four girls: Renee Root, Michelle Sliwinski and her husband Craig, Stephanie Miller and her husband Robert, and Carie Whitaker and her husband Steven M. Hervey's legacy continues through his brother, Richard Barbour, his sisters, Mary Elizabeth Davies and Martha Ellen Covey, his fifteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish his memory.

Hervey was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Mary Ellen (Mowbray) Barbour and his brother, Paul Barbour. His life was a testament to the values of dedication, innovation, and the importance of family. Those who knew Hervey will remember his quick wit, his readiness to lend a helping hand, and his unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

As we bid farewell to Hervey, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of passion and purpose. His spirit, characterized by his boundless curiosity and zest for life, will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Hervey's departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the remarkable contributions he made to his community and family.

Hervey’s life story is one of achievement, love, and the relentless pursuit of his passions. He will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will be treasured forever. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded to embrace each day with the same enthusiasm and vigor that Hervey did. Rest in peace, Hervey; your flight has now taken you to new horizons.

A memorial service is planned for July 26 at 3:30 at the Broken Arrow Campus of Tulsa Tech.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation to the Sooner State Chapter of ATOS in care of: Joyce Hatchett, SSC-ATOS Treasurer, 1764 East 60th Place, Tulsa, Ok 74105-7028 would be appreciated.

The family of Hervey Barbour entrusted his care and services to the Sien-Shelton Funeral Home Skiatook 918-396-9500.