Robert Waylene Barley

Robert Waylene Barley, age 70, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026. He was born October 9, 1955, in Florala, Alabama, to James H. and Lois Barley. Robert was a resident of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, and was raised in Gaskin, Florida. He was a Christian and grew up in the Church of Christ. A man of many talents, Robert was known as a true “go-to” person — capable, resourceful, and never afraid of hard work. He often said, “The best way to get ahead is to get off your butt.” Robert owned and operated Barley Utility Service. He was a licensed electrician, plumber, general contractor, underground utility contractor, mobile home installer, and worked extensively in the drinking water industry. Always planning for the future, he diversified his work and embraced lifelong learning. If something caught his interest, he dug into it wholeheartedly and gladly shared his knowledge with others. Robert had a deep love for old cars, especially Tri-Five Chevrolets — with 1955 models being his favorite. A man of strong opinions and firm convictions, Robert had a clear sense of right and wrong, and you always knew where you stood with him. He was a steadfast supporter of the Second Amendment and chaired numerous National Rifle Association (NRA) activities in Walton County. Above all, Robert was a family man and a supporter of his community. Often working quietly behind the scenes, he helped others get ahead by offering resources, connections, and encouragement. A natural collector, he liked to joke that he collected “things dusty and rusty,” while his wife preferred “shiny and breakable.”

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Keith Barley.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Kathryn Cawthon Barley; his children, Audri Dragula (Ron), Waylon Barley (Courtney), Mariah Barley, and Jay Bush (Jennifer); his grandchildren, Madison Barley, J.W. Bush, Jack Bush, Jett Bush, Jordan Welch (Eric), and Tyler Nixon; and his great-grandchild, Kaison Welch. He is also survived by his sisters, Gloria Huffman, Karen Simmons, and Gwen Kimbro, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, located at 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433.

Flowers will be accepted; however, as a strong supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, donations to stjude.org/donate would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home and Crematory.