Tony Lee Barrett

Tony Lee Barrett, age 66, of Grove, Oklahoma passed away in Joplin, Missouri on Sunday, January 18, 2026. He was born on May 17, 1959, in Groom, Texas to Bill and Mattie (West) Barrett. He grew up in Grove, Oklahoma, where he attended Grove Schools. He was a cherished member of the community and a loving figure to his extensive family. Tony’s big smile and hearty laughter endeared him to nearly everyone he met, but his siblings remained his closest allies throughout his life, and especially during the last few months as his health declined. His early career as a Grove Firefighter showcased his dedication to community service. Tony owned and operated Tony Barrett’s Wrecker Service and Auto Repair, which became a well-known and valued staple in the community. He was a man of faith and a faithful believer of Jesus Christ. His life reflected the values he cherished from his faith, showing kindness and a willingness to help others at every opportunity. Tony was a caring man with a giant heart. He delighted in spoiling his grandchildren at every opportunity, hiding ‘toy’ money above his car visor, a spot well known to each child. ‘Dad’ and ‘Papa’ were titles he proudly embraced, but his nieces and nephews were just as cherished and considered him the greatest ‘Uncle Tony’. Tony's passions included all things automotive, especially hot rods and NASCAR, with Dale Earnhardt being his favorite racer. Tony might have been known to have done a few (or a lot of) burnouts himself. He was also an avid football fan, loyally supporting both the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs. Tony is survived by his children, Nicholas Barrett of Tulsa, Kelsy Barrett (Lenzie Maples) of Grove, Jamie Tate (Curtiss) of Grove, and Lucas Irvine of Kansas City; siblings Terry Barrett (Janet) of Grove, Kathy Greer of El Paso, TX, and Delisa Keith (Kyle) of Grove. He was also a proud grandfather to Jaelynn Barrett, Brentley Barrett, Alisha Barrett and Tucker Tate. Tony leaves behind his adored nieces and nephews, including Dalton Barrett (Hilary), Holly, Danika, Arabella, Kade Keith, and great-nieces Emberlyn Barrett and Kinzley Barnard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill Barrett and Maddie (West) Adamson, his sister LaQuana Duff, and his stepmother, Inez Barrett. Services will be held at 11 am on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Bible Baptist Church, Grove, OK. Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services of Grove, OK, are assisting the family during this time. Tony will be remembered as friendly, fun-loving, somewhat stubborn, and silly at times and a joy to be around. His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to his family and community will live on through those who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Tony Lee Barrett

May 17, 1959 - January 18, 2026