09/26/2022
It is with great sadness that I report the passing of a friend and long time contributor to the Sign Painting industry. Joe Barry of Windam, N. Y., passed away recently. He was 89. Those of us who remember reading his and others articles in Signs of the Times and other magazines back in the day, know the value of people like Joe and what they meant to those of us who were thirsty for knowledge. Back before the internet, information and help from any experienced sign artist and craftsman was at a premium and very much appreciated. Joe was more than generous and always enjoyed talking about the craft. I met Joe several years ago when he contacted me after seeing a mural I had painted on the tailgate of a pickup truck and wanted to visit me. It didn’t dawn on me at first who he was until he was sitting at my counter and showing me some old photos he had and articles he written. He was retired by now but still tinkered with painting. He became a regular visitor to my shop and it was during this time I got him interested pin striping. My wife and I brought him with us to Arty’s Party out at the Syracuse nationals one year and he was amazed. He had a great time, buying new brushes, meeting and watching young painters ply their craft and trying his hand at striping. He moved downstate a few years ago but I would periodically check on him. With his passing another encyclopedia of knowledge and history is gone. This generation needs to be reminded that it is because of people like Joe Barry’s generosity and willingness to share what they know that’s kept the craft alive for them know about. Thank you Joe, not just for your knowledge but your friendship as well. You will be missed. R.I.P my friend.
Jay “QuickDraw” Griffen.
