Longtime Henry County commissioner dies after COVID-19 battle

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Henry County is mourning the loss of a longtime commissioner and pillar of the community who died Tuesday from COVID-19 complications.

Henry County Commissioner Gary Barham died Tuesday morning, according to his family and the county. Barham served as District 3 Commissioner since 2013 and previously worked for 31 years in McDonough.

Barham’s son Josh posted daily about his father’s battle on Facebook. Gary Barham had been in the hospital with COVID-19 and on a ventilator since early February.

“We were called to the hospital this morning and upon arrival, his blood pressure was very weak. He appeared to be in no pain, and when he went, he looked so peaceful,’ Josh posted on Tuesday. “There were no struggles. His last breaths here were a very peaceful transition. He was surrounded by his family and we all prayed over him as he departed.”

According to his commissioner page, Barham’s family has lived in Henry County since the 1800s. He grew up in McDonough and graduated from Henry County High School and Griffin Tech.

Prior to his time on the board, Barham worked for his hometown for 31 years and served as the director of public works and Chairman of the Parks and Beautification Committee of McDonough. He was also a volunteer fireman and Little League coach and umpire.

Barham is survived by his wife of 40 years Becky, two sons Adam and Josh and five grandchildren. Service arrangements are still being made by the family.

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