Albert E. “Sonny” Barry

FARMINGDALE – Albert E. “Sonny” Barry was born in Farmingdale on Oct. 23, 1935 to Everett Charles Barry and Stella Millett Barry. As the sun rose on Aug. 27, 2024, God opened his arms and took Sonny home with him after an extended period of declining health.

Sonny attended local grammar schools and one year at O.C. Woodman High School in Gardiner (class of 1953). He was a self-made success, by learning through experience, persistence, grit and determination.

On Dec. 11, 1954 he married Ann Reed and during the next four years they had three sons, Everett T. “Ted” Barry, Albert A. “Tony” Barry and Daryl Lee Barry.

Sonny told many stories of his younger years when he cut ice on the Kennebec River, had a milk route and plowed Farmingdale sidewalks with a horse and plow. He and his father established their construction business, E.C. Barry & Son in 1954. Eventually the business grew into multiple businesses, including street sweeping/vacuuming, wood processing and raising beef cattle. He was a Farmingdale constable for one year, a Farmingdale fireman for seven years and held the position of road commissioner in 2002 but declined to accept the position.

Sonny was so proud to have his son, Ted, share in the business. Ted and Sonny worked side by side through the good times and the bad for over 60 years. They were best friends, not just father and son.

Sonny could be rough, gruff, grumpy, crusty and his mouth could sometimes put a pirate to shame. But underneath that tough exterior was the kindest, gentlest, most generous person anyone could have the privilege of ever knowing. His love for all of God’s creatures was surpassed by none. He loved all animals, but when it came to his own, the sky was the limit for their care and well being. When Sonny lost one of his “friends” be it a cow, horse or one of his beloved labs, a piece of him went with them. He always said “no one will ever really know me” and maybe he was right, but to be connected with him during his lifetime was an incredible journey and honor for anyone. He was a man of deep compassion, honesty and he was a source of strength to many.

Sonny was happiest when he was moving dirt with his bulldozer or mowing a hayfield with his John Deere Tractor. Sonny operated his dozer and mowed hay up until one week before he passed.

Sonny was predeceased by his parents; a son, Darryl; a sister, Delores Stevens, sister-in-law, Sylvia Clough, brother-in-law, Donald Clough; and many, many furry friends.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ann; his sons Ted (Deb), Tony (Angela); six grandchildren, Leanne Skehan (Joe), Michelle Ranslow (Chris), Amy Carey (Nick), Ben Barry (Danielle), Chris Barry (Aya), Theodore “Ted” Barry; and Sonny’s beloved dog, Rocky. He is also survived by nephews John Barry (Marcy), William Preble, and Bert Clough (Janie), nieces Lana LaPlante-Ellis (Cameron) and Kathleen Preble; sister-in-law, Joanne Maddox; 11 great-grandchildren.

A special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Floor 1, West Wing 1 at Alfond Center, for the knowledge, care and kindness given to Sonny while he was in their care.

The family wants to especially thank Steve McGee for his caring support and thoughtfulness throughout Sonny’s final journey.

There will be a graveside service held on Sept. 15 at 11 a.m. at the Barry Cemetery, 315 Northern Ave., Farmingdale. A Celebration of Life to follow at the Barry Farm. Arrangements are under the direction of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. To view Sonny’s memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.StaplesFuneralHome.com

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Kennebec Valley Animal Shelter or to a charity of your choice.