
Shawn Barber
May 26, 1994 - Jan 16, 2024
Kingwood, TX
In Memory of Shawn Barber
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Shawnacy Barber
May 26, 1944 - Jan 16, 2024
Kingwood, TX
"Shawn Barber was a celebrated pole vaulter and LGBTQ+ advocate. He passed away at the age of 29 on January 17th, 2024, at his home in Kingwood, Texas, due to medical complications. Born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Barber rose to prominence as a pole vaulter, winning three NCAA championships and representing Canada in various international competitions, including the Olympics. He achieved remarkable success, winning the International Amateur Athletic Federation championship in 2015 and clinching gold at the Pan American Games the same year. In addition to his athletic achievements, Barber made headlines in 2017 when he bravely came out as gay in a Facebook post, expressing gratitude to his supportive parents and friends. Remembered as a talented athlete and a compassionate individual, Barber’s peers admired him for his kindness and selflessness. His agent, Paul Doyle, described him as not only an incredible athlete but also a good-hearted person who always prioritized others. Barber leaves behind his parents, Ann and George, and his brother, David. All who know him will cherish and remember his legacy as a trailblazer in sports fondly. "