In Loving Memory of Barry William Lanier

March 1, 1954 – September 5, 2023

A Life Surrounded by Sun and Water

Barry William Lanier, affectionately known as “Bee” to family and friends, entered eternal life on September 5, 2023, in Sebring, Florida. Born on March 1, 1954, in Baltimore, Maryland, Barry spent much of his life surrounded by the sun and waters around the Chesapeake Bay and Clearwater, Florida, places he deeply loved.

⸻

Family and Loved Ones

Barry’s greatest joy in life was his family and friends. His lively spirit, vibrant energy, and laughter made every moment spent with him absolutely unforgettable.

He is survived by his two beloved children, Laurén May Lanier Page (Kevin) and Jake Hunter Lanier, both of Dunedin, Florida.

Bee is also cherished by nieces Jeannie Lewis and her daughter Mackenzie Butler (Christopher Brown) of Brunswick, Georgia, and Oahu, Hawaii; Jennifer Lanier Hoffman (Brent) and son Jake Otto of Ocean City, Maryland; and nephews James Lanier of Florida and Matthew Lanier (Elisa) and son Michael of Baltimore, Maryland.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents James Thomas Lanier Sr. and Dorothea Kaltenbaugh Lanier, his brother James Thomas Lanier Jr., and his sister Judith Lanier Goodwin. He is further survived by his sister-in-law Shelly Lanier of Ocean City, Maryland, his brother-in-law Donn A. Goodwin of Sebring, Florida, and his extended Kaltenbaugh family.

⸻

Athletics, Drive, and Determination

Barry attended Dunedin High School, where he participated in multiple sports, clubs, and Student Council, particularly excelling in Cross Country and Track.

At the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, he nurtured his passion for athletics and famously broke the 4-minute mile during his college years. Barry went on to become a successful sales professional across multiple industries, known for his natural ability to connect with people and build relationships effortlessly.

⸻

Captain of His Own Course

An avid fisherman and boater, Bee was most at home on the water, where he would have gladly started each day with a sunrise fishing trip or a stroll on the beach.

His captain skills did not stop at the boat, as Barry had a way of guiding those around him with humor and wise words, always offering comfort and direction. Even from afar, he made sure to check in and lend a helping hand whenever it was needed.

Barry also had an amazing green thumb and was a passionate landscaper, putting his skills to good use through volunteer efforts at his church.

⸻

A Spirit That Still Guides Us

Bee’s good nature, wit, and ability to make others feel special are deeply missed by all who knew him. Though his ship has set sail, his spirit continues to guide us on the journey ahead.

Fair winds and following seas, Captain!

⸻

“Crossing the Bar”

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Sunset and evening star,

And one clear call for me!

And may there be no moaning of the bar,

When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,

Too full for sound and foam,

When that which drew from out the boundless deep

Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,

And after that the dark!

And may there be no sadness of farewell,

When I embark;

For tho’ from out our bourne of Time and Place

The flood may bear me far,

I hope to see my Pilot face to face

When I have crossed the bar.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/barry-lanier/obituary/

Copy