Timothy Barber Memorial Scholarship Fund
Timothy Leon Barber will long be remembered by family, friends, and co-workers as an involved member of his church and the community, dedicated to improving race relations and the quality of life for all. It is difficult to put into words the effect which Tim had on people's lives. Tim shared his love of God and his vision for a better future with all he met. It is often said that he accomplished more in his short years than many do in a lifetime.
Tim was an active member of the Antioch Seventh-day Adventist Church in Williamson. Using his musical talents, he served as the church chorister and provided pleasure for everyone as lead singer and soloist with the Antioch Ambassadors. He also served as Sabbath School Secretary and Assistant Adventist Youth Society Leader.
At the Williamson High School, Tim was a member of the school choir, basketball and track team. Graduating from Williamson High School in June of 1987, Tim had made plans to attend Oakwood College in Huntsville, Alabama in the fall, but he died in an automobile accident just prior to entering college.
Tim's clear thinking, self-confidence and articulateness was recognized by many. As a Board member of the Wayne County Youth Bureau, Tim actively participated in making decisions regarding youth programs and their funding. He also was an accomplished public speaker addressing those gathered to honor Martin Luther King in January 1987.
Tim cared deeply about his family and each person he met. He served as a volunteer at the St. Joseph's Villa group home. Although Tim was the youngest of fourteen children, he was looked up to and respected by all members of his family.
He was an inspiration to his peers as well as adults. Tim encouraged young people to look at the world as it is and to look for ways to make positive changes. His vision of the world was a model for each of us, a world in which all young people could have the opportunity to achieve their highest goals. Tim's wish was that young African American students have this opportunity and he worked hard to remove the barriers to their success.
Tim was an active member of WARE and gave meaningful guidance to the adults around him on the best ways to achieve racial equality for students in the schools.
WARE members felt that the most appropriate way to honor Tim was to help other students go to college. Therefore, the Tim Barber Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1987.
The scholarship award is given to young people who, like Tim, have made a positive impact in their community, especially with regard to eliminating racism. Since 1989, scholarships amounting to over $40,000 have been awarded to over 50 students graduating from Wayne County schools. The Scholarship Fund is currently awarding up to $4000 in scholarships each year. We keep a list of past winners.