Samuel "Mop" Barley

Samuel Leon "Mop" Barley was the second of five sons born to Frank and Johnnie Mae Barley on January 5, 1950. He was a proud graduate of Armstrong High School, Class of 1968. Mop attended Norfolk State University and while working full-time, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Averett University in 2008. In 1969, Mop joined the U.S. Army Reserve and continued a long military career until he retired as Tech Sergeant in 2006 from the Virginia Air National Guard where he served as an aircraft fuel systems journeyman. Mop's unit was presented an Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and he received a Bronze Star, several expert ribbons and meritorious service medals. He participated in Operation Noble Eagle in response to the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks. Mop also enjoyed a 17-year career at Virginia Power Company as an estimator. Following his retirement in 1988, he began a new career with Henrico County for 28 years where he celebrated a second retirement in 2015. Mop was a free spirit who loved life and the joys of everyday living. He loved to travel venturing throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Mop was a sharp dresser who liked to party and 'good-time it up' with family and friends. His four brothers were his best buds and everyone who knew them while growing up were clear - don't mess with the Barley boys - or you'll pay a heavy price dealing with Mop. The 'tough one', 'mean one', 'cook one', 'smooth one' was his motto. 'What You See is What You Get' by the Dramatics was his favorite sound and he lived his life doing what he wanted, saying what he wanted to whomever he wanted, when and how he wanted, period. His rough and tough demeanor gave way as his grandchildren came along showing the softer side as he cherished each one. Being 'Granddad' was very special. Mop was a fighter, a warrior who would always say "I tried". Ultimately, March 24, 2018, he lost his toughest and most challenging battle of life that no one has ever won. He leaves to cherish his memory, three sons, Samuel Bryant, Rev. Sean Sr. (Calisa) and Sedric (Scherrie) Barley; three grandchildren, Justyn and Bryce Bryant and Sean Barley, Jr.; four brothers, Franklin Jr. (Debra), Jerome, Reginald (Hattie) and Willie Barley; a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, and many relatives and friends.

Tributes

Samuel "Mop" Barley

January 5, 1950 - March 24, 2018