LARGO, Fla. (AP) — The disc golf community in Oldsmar, Florida, was left in mourning after the tragic death of a beloved member, James “Mick” Barber Sr., who was killed alongside his brother Wesley Barber. Mick’s son, James “Mick” Barber Jr., has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder after allegedly fatally shooting both men at their Pinellas County home on Friday night.
Mick Sr., described as a pro disc golfer who exuded positivity and encouraged everyone in the sport, was remembered by more than 40 players who gathered at the disc golf course at Oldsmar’s Sheffield Park to honor his memory and support each other through the grief.
Mick’s close friend, Josh Smith, spoke of Mick’s impact on the community, stating, “He brought so many people into the sport and taught them. He was just full of life, always.”
According to Mary “Christi” Deal, Mick Sr.’s partner, Mick Jr. had been struggling and had been committed under Florida’s Baker Act for being a danger to himself and others. Deal revealed that Mick Jr. had shown signs of anger and had been practicing at the shooting range prior to the tragic incident.
In the aftermath of the deaths, the grief-stricken community held a memorial game at Sheffield Park, where they honored Mick Sr.’s memory and planned to dedicate a hole in the course to him. The sport of disc golf, often a source of joy and camaraderie, now serves as a way for the community to come together and remember their friend.
Mick Sr.’s passion for the sport and his uplifting presence will be dearly missed, as his friends and fellow disc golf enthusiasts come to terms with the loss. As they tossed a disc in his memory, they reflected on the impact Mick had on their lives and the legacy he leaves behind.