Gene Barton

Gene Barton

Okolona- Robert Eugene Barton, 71, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at his home in Okolona, surrounded by family. He was born May 30, 1954, in Greenville, to Wade Carr Barton and Sarah Nell Bishop Barton. The family moved to Tupelo in 1959, where Gene was raised.

After graduating from Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Gene attended the University of Mississippi, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Political Science and English in 1975. He continued his education at the University of Mississippi School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1977—beginning a career that would span nearly five decades of public service and community leadership.

Gene opened a law firm in Tupelo and dedicated his career to representing individuals from all walks of life. While practicing there, he also served as a City Alderman for the City of Tupelo and as both Youth Court Prosecutor and Public Defender for Lee County. During that time, he also helped lead a communitywide cancer benefit, going door-to-door throughout the city and county to raise funds for cancer research.

Later, Gene relocated to Pontotoc, where he continued his law practice and served as a Public Defender for Pontotoc County. Eventually, he made his home in Okolona, where he practiced law until his retirement. In addition to maintaining his private practice, Gene served as the City Attorney for the City of Okolona for nearly two decades and as City Prosecutor for almost as long. Over the course of his career, he represented thousands of clients and appeared before courts across the state, including the Mississippi Supreme Court and the Federal District Court. Gene often said he had handled just about every kind of case imaginable—except patent law.

Gene was deeply involved in civic and political life. He was a member of The Common Cause and played a role in the development and legislative adoption of Mississippi’s Open Meetings Act. He was also active in the Rotary Club, Civitan, and the Mississippi Prosecutors Association. He served as Chairman of the Democratic Party of Chickasaw County, sat on the State Executive Committee of the Democratic Party, and served as County Attorney for Chickasaw County for several years. Whether in the courtroom, city hall, or his community, Gene led with principle and treated everyone with respect.

Gene was a man of quiet conviction and steady strength. He believed in doing what was right. A faithful member of First Baptist Church of Okolona, Gene’s faith guided his work, his relationships, and the way he treated others—with fairness, humility, and kindness.

Of all the titles Gene held, the one he cherished most was “Dad.” He adored his children and devoted himself fully to their happiness and success. His steady presence, gentle humor, and unwavering love shaped their lives and will continue to guide them long after his passing.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Cindy Flaherty Barton of Okolona; his children, Josh Barton (Chrisley) of Pascagoula, Johnny Crouch (Jessie) of Okolona, Robert Crouch of Pontotoc, Maria Grisham (Luke) of Ecru, Stephanie Johnson of Pontotoc, Gene Barton Jr. of Okolona, and Lowell Barton of Okolona; four grandchildren, Will Barton, Chloe Barton, Bella Barton, and Roman Grisham; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wade Carr Barton and Sarah Nell Bishop Barton, and by his uncle, Gene Bishop.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. until service time, Thursday, January 29, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Okolona.

Services honoring Gene’s life will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Okolona with Bro. Randy Lewman officiating. Pegues Funeral Directors has been entrusted with arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.