James Anthony Barr, Jr.

James “TJ” Anthony Barr, Jr. passed away on Monday September 30th at the age of 43. Throughout his life, he aspired to perpetuate art and creativity in the world around him.

James was a published poet and the editor and publisher of the New Rotvrier Review (https://newrotvrier.com/). He had a true spirit of discovery; he consistently learned new skills, including pottery, woodworking, silver casting, and beekeeping. He had a deep love of music and was guaranteed to dance at a wedding. James had a “green thumb” from his youth and devoted his time to organic gardening, sustainable soil improvement, and tending to bonsai trees. He loved to hike and fish and felt at peace when he was among the trees. When he wasn’t spending time outdoors, James loved to read and expand his book collection.

Born in Aiken, SC to James Barr, Sr. and Wanda Barr, James graduated from the University of South Carolina Aiken with a Bachelor of Arts degree. As an adult he taught English as a Second Language in Prague, Czech Republic where he met his wife, April, and they then lived in Santiago, Chile; they had many adventures.

James was resourceful and innovative, creative and curious, considerate and courteous, and hard-working and intelligent; his integrity was visible in all of his undertakings. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, Freemason, and friend.

James is survived by his wife and best friend, April, his mother, Wanda, his brother, Jonathan, his sister-in-law, Sarah, his mother-in-law, Cheryl, his father-in-law, Richard, his brother-in-law, Ben, his nephew, Galyn, many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins, and his dog, Bear.

While James had many interests, he was most passionate about his family, poetry, and nature. For those able to give, please consider contributing to one of the organizations listed below in lieu of sending flowers.

The family will receive friends at 10:15 AM, and a Celebration of Life for James will follow at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Aiken Center for the Arts.

Trees for a Change To celebrate James’ life, a Memorial Grove of trees has been set up in his name through an organization called Trees for a Change. To donate, visit www.treesforachange.com and select Collective Grove. 

Stephen Gardner English Scholarship Endowment Dr. Stephen Gardner was a professor of English at USC Aiken and sparked James’ interest in writing and poetry. To donate in memory of James, checks should be made payable to The Aiken Partnership, and mailed to:

USC Aiken Advancement Office 471 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801. Please indicate on the memo line the gift is in memory of James Barr. Call (803) 641-3518 for card transactions.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC