Christopher “Chris” “Lump” Barber

January 15, 1963 – October 9, 2026

Christopher “Chris” “Lump” Barber, a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, man of faith, mentor, athlete, and friend, peacefully entered eternal rest surrounded by the love of his family and the grace of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Chris grew up in the Happy Hill Gardens community, where he developed lifelong friendships and a passion for athletics that would shape much of his life. He attended Parkland High School, where he distinguished himself as a standout football player before continuing his education and athletic career at North Carolina A&T State University, proudly representing the Aggies on the football field.

Chris’s gift for athletics opened doors to an impressive professional football career. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals for six years, including during their Super Bowl era in the late 1980s, and also played professionally for the Dallas Cowboys, the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League, and in the Canadian Football League. Throughout his football journey, Chris was known not only for his athletic ability but also for his unwavering faith and dedication to serving others.

A strong believer in Christ Jesus, Chris boldly shared his faith throughout his life. He served as a team chaplain on multiple football teams and was actively involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Whether on the field, in the locker room, or within his community, he sought every opportunity to encourage, inspire, and lead others closer to God. His faith served as the foundation of his life and guided the way he loved and cared for those around him.

Beyond athletics, Chris pursued opportunities in modeling and acting, demonstrating his versatility and vibrant personality. In 2000, he began a career with Lake Highland Preparatory School, where he positively impacted countless students, athletes, colleagues, and families through his mentorship, leadership, and commitment to excellence.

Above all else, Chris loved his family. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved, offering support, wisdom, encouragement, and laughter. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving brother, and a trusted friend whose presence brought comfort and strength to all who knew him.

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Geno Henry Barber, and his brother, Sterling Barber.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Veronica “Ronnie” Barber; his loving mother, Emma Crawford; his sons, Aaron Barber and Christopher “Lamont” Barber; his daughter, Shelby Barber; his cherished granddaughters, Jordan Barber and Saniyah Pierce; his siblings, Thomas “Reggie” Crawford (Tammy), Joy “Malissa” Barber, Deborah “Deb” Lybrand, and Stacy Anderson (Neil); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, former teammates, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, faith, and encouragement.

Though his earthly journey has come to an end, Chris leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, perseverance, service, and love. His life serves as a reminder that true success is measured not only by accomplishments but by the lives we impact and the faith we carry. His family finds peace in knowing that he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Memorial services will be held at 12:00noon Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 12:00noon on Saturday at the Chapel.