April 16, 1947 – October 1, 2025
Bari L. Neighbors, 78, of Salem, VA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Though his body grew tired after courageously fighting multiple health battles, his spirit never wavered. He welcomed each day with faith and determination.
Bari graduated from Andrew Lewis High School (1965) and Virginia Tech (1969). He enjoyed gathering and reminiscing with friends about high school years and watching his beloved Hokies. According to friends, he had a sweet baseline jump shot and played tight end on the Andrew Lewis 1964 State champion football team. Married his high school sweetheart, Donna Kay, they cherished 57 years of marriage. One of his greatest joys was being the proud father of three daughters and four grandchildren, each of whom experienced his unwavering support and affection.
Bari retired from Carter Machinery after many years as a Caterpillar heavy equipment sales representative. He never met a stranger and was a loyal friend to many. Bari valued faith, family, and had a strong work ethic which he instilled in his children. He ensured he provided for his family and taught them by example the values of responsibility and integrity.
Bari will be remembered not only for his courage and resilience but also for the love, compassion, and laughter he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by many, but his legacy of faith, family, and friendship will live on in all who had the privilege to know him.
Surviving Bari are his loving, caring, and committed wife Donna Kay, daughters Dee Neighbors, Kay Dempsey, and Sara Jo Elmore, grandchildren Matthew Elmore, Bari Ellen Elmore, Hanna Dempsey, and Colton Dempsey. He was preceded in death by his parents Sylvanus “Duck” and Rita Neighbors.
A service to honor his life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Salem, VA, on Saturday, Oct. 11. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., service at 2 p.m. with a reception following. The family expresses their gratitude to the Good Samaritan Hospice team that provided excellent guidance and care for him, Salem Fire and Rescue, Dr. Roy Habib, MD, Interim HealthCare, and to all the friends and family that visited and offered support. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to the Salem Rescue Squad, Salem Fire Department, or Good Samaritan.
