Joseph Comer “Bud” Barrett passed away on June 3, 2026. Born in Mobile, Alabama, Bud later moved to Gulf Breeze, Florida, where he made his home for more than 60 years.

Bud was educated at Marion Military Institute, Spring Hill College, where he studied biology, and the University of West Florida, where he studied accounting. Following graduation, he served as a Lieutenant in the United States Army. After his military service, he worked for IBM as a Systems Analyst, which led him to Hygeia Coca-Cola Company, where he retired as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Bud loved to work and brought dedication and excellence to every role he held. A lifelong and devoted Catholic, he faithfully practiced his faith with his family and served on the finance committee at St. Michael Basilica.

Bud was also deeply committed to his community. He was a charter member of the Gulf Breeze Rotary Club and received the Paul Harris Fellow Award. In his early adult years, he served as a volunteer firefighter with the Gulf Breeze Fire Department. He also served as President and a four-year board member of Covenant Hospice, where he was instrumental in helping automate and expand the organization. In addition, he was proud to be named an honorary Northwest Florida Girl Scout and served as Vice President.

Bud’s great passion was sailing. He raced both small and large boats and later enjoyed cruising to ports around the world. He was a member of Pensacola Yacht Club for more than 55 years, where he also served on the finance committee. To stay connected with family and friends while at sea, he became a ham radio operator. After selling his boats, Bud returned to another passion, organic gardening, and enjoyed the companionship of his retired Canine Companions service dog, Saylor.

Bud will be remembered as a Catholic, soldier, husband, father, volunteer, sailor, gardener, and loyal friend.

Truly, he was a man who sailed life full circle.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Roe Barrett; his father, Joseph Comer Barrett Jr.; his son, Joseph Comer Barrett IV; and his wife, Joy Carr Barrett.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Barnes Barrett; his daughter, Lee Barrett Wilpon (Bruce – deceased); his son, Paul Carr Barrett (Sabine); his granddaughter, Zoe Joy Wilpon; his sister, Margaret Roe VanAntwerp; and 13 nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, June 8, at St. Ann Catholic Church in Gulf Breeze, with Father John Cayer as celebrant. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. A family graveside service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Ann Catholic Church, 100 Daniel Dr, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561, or to Canine Companions, 8150 Clarcona Ocoee Rd, Orlando, FL 32818.

The family extends special thanks to the ICU and cardiac staff at Baptist Hospital for their care and compassion.