George Warren Barber

George Warren Barber Jr., a prominent American businessman, real estate developer, and philanthropist, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 85. Known for his visionary creation of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Barber Motorsports Park, he left an indelible mark on the world of motorsports and his home state of Alabama. Barber's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for collecting transformed a personal hobby into a world-renowned institution.

Born on September 15, 1940, Barber inherited a strong business acumen from his father, George H. Barber, who founded Barber Dairies in the 1930s. George W. Barber Jr. took the helm of the family dairy business in 1970 following his father's death, significantly expanding its operations before its sale to Dean Foods in 1998. Beyond his corporate endeavors, Barber was an avid racecar driver in his youth, a passion that would later define much of his philanthropic legacy.

His true passion, however, lay in collecting and preserving vintage motorcycles. Beginning in the 1970s, Barber amassed an extraordinary collection that would eventually be recognized by Guinness World Records in 2014 as the largest of its kind, boasting over 1,400 motorcycles. This remarkable collection became the foundation for the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, which he established as a non-profit in 1994.

In 2003, Barber's vision culminated in the opening of the Barber Motorsports Park and the expanded Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. This 880-acre facility not only houses his unparalleled collection but also features a world-class racetrack, drawing enthusiasts and major events from across the globe. His profound contributions to motorsports were recognized with his induction into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2014.

George W. Barber Jr.'s dedication to his community and his unwavering commitment to preserving automotive history have created a lasting monument that will continue to inspire generations. His legacy extends beyond business and philanthropy, embodying a lifelong pursuit of passion and excellence. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched through his remarkable achievements.