James Barra Obituary

I am so sorry. You were a wonderful man. Just found out at a retirement party this past weekend. My belated condolences to your family. Arlene Weisner, Counselor Ernest J. MAY E.S. Rip

I don't know what made me think of Mr. Barra today, but saddened me to see his obituary from 3 years ago. He was my favorite principal ever. I will never forget him and his goofiness when I was in Herman Hutchens Elementary from Valdez, Alaska, back in the early 90's. He will forever be missed!

I had the pleasure of working with Phil during his tenure at Hinman Elementary School. One day I told him he was a great guy to "work for" and he quickly corrected me "work with"him. So many memories..like Phil answering the phone with the greeting "Hello, welcome to happy Hinman."

Happy trails Mr. Barra,

Mike Theige

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time, Debbie. I remember teaching in second grade at Lowman with you when Phil was our AP. It was such a pleasure working with both of you. What a pleasant surprise when you told me you two had gotten married! I was so sorry to read that Phil had passed away. He was a wonderful person and educator, and I'm sure he will be missed by many.

I worked for Phil for 3 years at Edna Hinman Elementary School as a 2nd grade teacher. He was an amazing person and leader. His positive attitude and relationship with his students and staff were amazing. He impacted my life in such a positive way, and was the reason I chose to be a principal. My deepest sympathies to your family. He was such an extraordinary person.

Phil was a volunteer for me at my school. He worked so well with the children! He helped so many children become a success! I always appreciated his smile! He will be missed.

Phil was my neighbor a few blocks from my house. He and his little doggie, Bailey always brought cheer on their walks to the mailbox. Bailey would dance about and Phil would look on with adoring eyes. Bailey went to doggie heaven a few weeks ago and now Phil. I am so sadden to lose such a wonderful neighbor who always had good cheer and lots of friendliness. Ellie Stites Swanger

My first appointment as an assistant principal was to Kermit Booker. Phil was the other assistant principal and very quickly took me under his wing to show me the beginning ropes of the position. He had the greatest sense of humor, care for the students and staff, and true wisdom. I loved his green jacket for St Patrick's Day. My condolences to his family for this loss.

Cardon Allred

My Prayers and thoughts are with the family in your time of sorrow.

God Bless
Sarah Cummings

I was blessed to call Phil my brother in law. He was a unique mix of compassion and understanding as well as having an ornery streak with a mischievious sense of humor ! Heaven is a happier place with his presence now there !!

Phil was a wonderful man and an amazing principal. I worked closely with him during his tenure at EJ May. He always was concerned about his students and their staff. I have never dealt with another principal with his compassion. My condolences to his family! Prayers and sympathies to them as well!!

Cheryl Prescott Steinke

As a 26-year volunteer at Hinman Elementary School, I was surprised the day I was on a ladder in the hall putting up decorations. A man came up to me and put his hand up for a handshake. "Hi, I'm Phil. I'm so happy to meet you and I'm glad you're here. If you ever need anything, please let me know." I asked a teacher who it was and she told me it was the new principal. During his time at Hinman, I observed his friendly ways and how he treated everyone with a great deal of respect. While we were speaking about education last week, I just repeated that story to a friend. In all my years at various schools, I had never met a principal who went out of his way to be so kind and caring to every student, teacher, and volunteer in his school. What a wonderful man he was. My condolences to his family.

Phil was a very beloved principal at Hinman Elementary School. His caring for all students and staff was exhibited every day as he touched all of our lives. We missed him when he left us as I'm sure you are all missing him now. It was a blessing to know such a very special man!