George James Barbera of Smyrna, Tennessee

February 22, 1935 - June 26, 2020

George James Barbera, age 85, of Smyrna, TN passed away Friday, June 26, 2020 at Alive Hospice after a brief illness. George was born February 22, (George Washington's Birthday hence his name) 1935 in Buffalo, NY, son of the late James and Mildred (Prizzi) Barbera.

As a teenager, George loved to go horseback riding, He would walk across the Peace Bridge over to Canada to the stables and if he had no money to pay he would work in the barn to cover the fee. His passion for horses and the cowboy life only grew from there, into his adulthood, which he shared with his children. He also enjoyed boating on Percy Priest Lake with his family.

He was a loving husband to the late Elizabeth (Laceris) Barbera, for 56 years and father of four sons, Tommy B. (Mary Anne) Barbera , John Barbera, Ron (Stephanie) Barbera , Lonnie (Charlotte) Barbera. One daughter; Linda (Kevin) Konstabel. George was a grandfather of 16, and great grandfather of 6. He was a dear brother of John “Sonny”, Rosella “Sally” Nicosia, Antoinette, Vincent, Michael, Peter, Anne Marie Moscato, and Gerald.

George proudly served his country by joining the Army Reserves. He started his career at the Greater Buffalo Press, South Buffalo Railroad/Bethlehem Steel and later ventured into the career path of hair styling and opened his own salon. George ventured into the tire and battery business selling out of the trunk of his car, eventually being hired by his supplier and then recruited by Interstate Tire to become their #1 salesperson until the day he retired.

George loved to make people laugh with his famous “Dad” jokes. He had a contagious smile that would light up the room.

A service will be held Saturday, July 25, at St. Luke’s in Smyrna, TN. Condolences may be sent to the family at www. alternativecremationandfuneral service.com