Victor Ray Barbee, age 78, of Louisville, Illinois passed away in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Axiom Healthcare in Flora, Illinois.

He was born on April 20, 1948, in Effingham, Illinois, the son of James and Margaret (Lewis) Barbee. He married Erma Pearl Berthold on June 1, 1968, at the Louisville Christian Church and they shared 53 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on January 15, 2022.

Vic dedicated much of his working life to honest labor and responsible service. He began his career at Fedders in Effingham and later continued his professional journey at North American Lighting after Fedders closed. There, he worked for many years in the purchasing department, where his reliability, organization, and strong work ethic earned the respect of his coworkers. In retirement, he remained active and industrious by owning and operating Barbee Advertising for several years until his health no longer allowed him to continue.

Faith was an important part of Vic's life, and he was a lifelong member of Red Brush Christian Church in Louisville. His devotion to his church family was evident in the many roles he fulfilled over the years. He served as an Elder, a Deacon, and a financial trustee, offering his time, leadership, and careful judgment wherever he was needed. His years of service reflected both his commitment to his faith and his desire to help support the church community he loved so deeply.

Vic also enjoyed a full and active life outside of work and church. In his younger years, he liked going fishing and played softball for Red Brush's church team, where he enjoyed the fellowship and friendly competition. He loved to travel and especially looked forward to trips to the Smoky Mountains and Branson. He also found peace and enjoyment in simply getting into his truck and taking drives to look at nature. In later years, he developed an interest in collecting and shooting guns.

Vic is survived by his sons: Darren (Julie) Barbee of Louisville, Ryan (Brenda) Barbee of Effingham, Chad (Lanie) Barbee of Louisville; 4 granddaughters: RaeAnne (Matthew) Modlin of Evansville, Indiana, Lara (Mitch) Healy of Louisville, Ananiah Barbee of Louisville and Isabella Barbee of Louisville; 1 great-grandson: Isaiah Modlin of Evansville, Indiana; 1 brother: Larry (Betty) Barbee of Bible Grove. 

In addition to his wife, Vic was also preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law: Sue (Jerry) Goebel. 

Funeral services to celebrate Vic's life will be held at 11:00 am Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Red Brush Christian Church with Ron Payne and Tyler Mulvany officiating. Following the services cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held on Friday morning at the church from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Vic's memory to either Red Brush Building Fund or Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. 

The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory or story of Vic, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.