Barry Gene Stafford

Barry Gene Stafford, 63, passed away May 11th, 2021.

Barry was born December 30th, 1957 to Jackie Joe “Joe” and Lola Janice “Jan” Stafford (Hayes). He grew up in Blue Springs, MO and remained a lifelong resident of the town. In March 1976, he met the love of his life and soul mate, Leslie Ann Brattin. On July 10th, 1976, those two love birds got hitched and planted roots of their own.  They had 3 children. Kelly Ann, Jill Lynn and Barry Gene Jr.. Becoming a dad was one of his greatest joys. He was always proud to brag on his children. Becoming a PaPa was icing on the cake. And with more than a dozen grandchildren, he got a lot of practice, a lot of laughs, and a lot of stories to share. He was looking forward to welcoming his first great-grandchild in July.

Barry was a hard worker and always provided for his family. He started working for General Mills at age 18. He dedicated 36 years as a Millwright for the company.

Barry was a friend to all, he never met a stranger. Talking to him was like talking to someone you’ve known your whole life. From the moment he met you, he would put you in his circle and his circle was ever-growing. Barry had a huge heart for people. He was always willing to listen to you, or just sit with you, and he’d even share a Busch beer with you. He felt deep and loved big.

You could often find Barry sitting outside watching the grandkids play basketball, or chatting up a neighbor. His laugh was infectious and you could hear it echoing down the street. Barry was a lover of many things; his family, classic cars and trucks, and especially The 4th of July (he always swore that was his REAL birthday).

His death is felt by all who knew and loved him, but the stories of the amazing life he lived will continue to be told for many years. Those stories will probably start with “remember that one time…” and end in an eruption of laughter from all who hear it.

Barry is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Jan Stafford, his brother Joe Stafford and his grandson Connor Harkness.

Barry is survived by his wife, Leslie Stafford of Blue Springs, MO, children: Kelly Ann Harkness and husband Jerry of Parkville, MO, Jill Lynn Leffert and husband Matt of Blue Springs, MO, Barry Gene “BJ” Stafford Jr and wife Kirsten of Blue Springs, MO, as well as his grandchildren Corbin Bagnell, Jonas Bagnell, Garett Bagnell, Elyse Minor, Addison Minor, Caden Harkness, Claire Harkness, Matthew Leffert Jr., Ian Leffert, Eli Leffert, Ayla Stafford, Max Stafford, Nick Paul, Lyndsey Paul, Kelsea Paul

A remembrance celebration will be held May 29th, 2021 at Blue Springs Lake, Shelter C at 12:00pm. Please bring chairs.