Leneer L. Barber

Dress Code: Chiefs Attire 

Leneer L. Barber was born on November 25th, 1936, in Topeka, KS to Elmore and Ruth Barber. He was educated in the Topeka public school system. His favorite subject was math, and he lettered in pole vaulting. His love of math would eventually translate to an Associate’s degree in Accounting at Washburn University. He married Rebecca M. Fouts in 1957 and their union produced three beautiful children. In 1960, the young family settled in the Quindaro neighborhood of Kansas City, KS. He was employed with Western Electric for many decades, and after retirement, volunteered as part of its Pioneer Club. Eventually, Leneer enrolled in H&R Block’s Income Tax Preparatory School, and in 2017, he received an honor from H&R Block for being the first black person to graduate from this program. In the 1960s, he opened his own accounting and bookkeeping business called Barber’s Accounting in Overland Park, KS. This was his ultimate passion, where he worked with many beloved clients throughout the world, until he retired in 2023. 

Leneer was a sports fanatic. He played baseball, tennis, golf, and bowling. Leneer was also a diehard Kansas City Chiefs fan, as dedicated as they come, being a 30-year season ticket member. He would wake up at the break of dawn to be one of the first in line to enter the stadium and get his parking spot, often dragging his sleepy granddaughters along with him. They would spend hours tailgating together before the games. He had many close bonds with his fellow passionate fans and staff members in Chiefs Kingdom. Leneer also had a passion for civil rights. He served as a lifetime member of the Johnson County NAACP and proudly held the position of treasurer for many years. As part of his service, he represented the branch at the national convention annually. 

Leneer was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Rebecca Mae, as well as two of his brothers, Herbert and Wayne. He is survived by his brother, Mark and his three children: Barry (Bridgette), Robin, and Rebecca Ann. He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Barry Jr. (Natalie), Marcus (Tameka), Tai, and Rebecca Helen. He also had a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who he adored.

Following the service a repass will be held at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center, in their Pinnacle Room, 11902 Lowell Ave, Overland Park, KS  66213, from 12:30-2:30p.m.