Barry Eugene Lee, 60, of Owensboro, passed away at his home on January 24, 2026, under the care of his family with support from Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky. He was born on April 27, 1965, and was the beloved son of the late Vernon and Mary Helen Lee.
Barry may have had a gruff exterior, but beneath it was a heart of gold. He was the unofficial “mayor” of Thruston and never met a stranger. Always the first to show up when someone needed a helping hand, Barry was known for his generosity and loyalty. He loved anything with an engine, especially watching them race, and in his younger days worked on a NASCAR pit crew. An avid animal lover, Barry cared for many four-legged friends throughout his life. He was a proud Christian and was baptized at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Austin Woodward (Devon); siblings, Larry Lee (David), Cathy Lee Bays (Steve), and Cyndi Lee Lamar; niece, Sarah Kaiser (Cory); nephew, Matthew Bays (Whitney); great nephew, Drayven Bays; dog, M.H.; as well as many other loving family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on January 31, 2026, at Settle Memorial United Methodist Church Gymnasium, 201 E. 4th St., Owensboro, KY 42301.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation in Barry’s name to Hospice and Palliative Care of Westen Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301.
Care entrusted to Cardinal Cremation Society.