John Paul Barbee, 88, of Franklin, NC, died peacefully in his home on April 21, 2026, with his loving wife, Cathy, at his side. He was born on June 11th, 1937, in Rochester, NY to Paul and Martha Barbee and was the eldest of four children.

When John left Rochester for college in Colorado, he discovered mountains, and most importantly skiing, a hobby he pursued into his 8th decade. Like skiing, he was smitten with all fast modes of transportation. He loved cars, flew for the U.S. Air Force and later privately, and during his years in Florida, spent time as crew in sailing races.

At heart, John was a businessman. He was a Certified Public Accountant who valued the relationships he built with his clients. Over his career, he pursued a variety of ventures, including the sales of cars, planes, and even a brief time in hardware. He built a specialized accounting firm in Florida and served as a U.S. Federal Bankruptcy Trustee in South Florida for nearly 20 years. Ultimately, he and his family made their home in the mountains he loved, settling in Franklin, North Carolina. There, they enjoyed life on a small acreage, keeping horses and embracing a quieter, more personal way of living. Never one to stay idle, John opened another accounting practice in Franklin before his retirement, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, integrity, and dedication to his clients.

Above all, John was most proud of his family. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Barbee, his six children -- Andy Barbee (Kim), Alan Barbee (Lori), Lindley Barbee (Mark Zaros), Taylor Barbee Beard (Brad), Alex Barbee Kiser (Will) and Catherine Barbee; his eight grandchildren – Caroline Barbee Rogers (Carter), Ben Barbee (Ellie) and Emma Barbee, Cassidy and Sadie Beard, Gus, Oliver and Teddy Zaros, and his three sisters, Martha Lindley, Helen Gorsuch and Sarah Alexander. He was preceded in death by his grandson Austin Barbee.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a charitable organization of your choice.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.