Cora Jean and Billy Barber

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Cora Jean Pippin, who passed away on July 27, 2026 at the age of 79.

Jean was born on February 13, 1947 in Luverne, Alabama to Lewis and Vada Pippin. Throughout life, she was known for dedication to her career and family and touched the lives of many.

Jean worked as management in insurance for 35 years and took great pride in her dedication to her career and work family. Outside of work, Jean enjoyed the beach, playing softball, camping, reading and spending time with her family.

Jean is survived by her brother Wayne Pippin and his wife Ann, her children Mike Barber, Barry Barber, Kesia Gray and son in law Daniel Gray, her grandchildren Christopher Barber, Wesley Barber, Cody Barber, Ian Hall, Nolan Hall, Blake Hall, Zion Gray, Jay Gray, Kiersten Gray, Alle Purkey and her great grandchildren Elijah Barber, Lita Hall and Callan Hall.

She was preceded in death by her husband Billy W. Barber and son William Steven Hall.

Those who knew Jean will remember her for her dedication to her family, friends and work. Her love, wisdom, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of family and friends. Jean will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Billy Wayne Barber, 77, passed away on November 20, 2016. Born on November 5, 1939, in Prattville, Alabama, he was the third son of Homer and Flossie Barber.

Billy was a Christian and a devoted family man. He cherished his beloved wife, Jean, and took great pride in his children: Mike Barber and his wife Georgia, Barry Barber and his wife Celia, Billy Hall, and Kesia Gray and her husband Dan.

Affectionately known as "Poppa," Billy was deeply loved by his grandchildren: Christopher, Ian, Nolan, Blake, Wesley, Cody, Zion, Jay, and Kiersten, as well as his several great-grandchildren.

His family was the center of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Billy worked at Hall Brothers Dairy for many years before becoming widely known as the "Bubble Gum Man." In later years, he and Jean traveled across the country running hot-shot freight together.

An avid animal lover, Billy taught his children the meaning of hard work through baling hay, caring for livestock, and always giving their best effort. He instilled in them the importance of honesty and integrity, teaching them that no matter the task, it should be done to the best of one's ability - and that a person's word is their bond.

Billy was well known for his wonderful sense of humor and his ability to bring laughter to those around him. To his children, he was more than a father: he was the best Daddy anyone could have asked for.

Ten years after his passing, Billy remains deeply loved and greatly missed by all who knew him.

His lessons, laughter, and steadfast devotion to his family continue to live on through those whose lives he touched.

His family takes comfort in knowing that Billy will be ready and waiting at Heaven's gate, where he will one day be reunited with his beloved family and host of friends.