Dr. James Lawrence Barrentine's Obituary
Dr. Barrentine.
Jim.
Dr. B.
Dad.
Granddaddy.
Uncle Jim.
Whatever you called him, James Lawrence Barrentine was known for his deep love for family, his devotion to the Arkansas Razorbacks, his endless search for truly “fresh” coffee, and his unforgettable laugh that could light up any room.
Dr. James “Jim” Lawrence Barrentine, 84, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished most.
After earning two degrees from University of Arkansas and a Ph.D. from Purdue University, Jim built an accomplished career in agricultural product development and plant science leadership that spanned more than five decades. Throughout his professional journey, he served in leadership roles with agricultural companies and universities across the Southeast and worked internationally in South America, Europe, and Japan. To colleagues and students alike, Jim was known as an exceptional mentor, respected leader, and loyal friend.
One of Jim’s proudest accomplishments was helping establish the Delta Classic Golf Tournament in Helena, Arkansas, which raised scholarship funds for students from eastern Arkansas pursuing higher education. Since 2001, the tournament has provided life-changing educational opportunities for numerous students, including through the James Barrentine Scholarships established in his honor in 2013. For many young people, these scholarships opened doors to brighter futures and college educations that may not otherwise have been possible.
Jim’s faith was a guiding force throughout his life. He was a longtime and active member of First Baptist Church of Fayetteville, where he found deep community, fellowship, and purpose. His faith shaped the way he lived — with kindness, humility, generosity, and a genuine care for others.
Outside of his professional life, Jim embraced every opportunity to enjoy the people and activities he loved most. He enjoyed playing tennis, working in his yard, traveling the country with his beloved wife Doris in their RV, and enthusiastically cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks. Whether attending football and baseball games or exploring new places together, Jim lived with gratitude, curiosity, and joy.
Jim’s legacy lives on through the countless students he encouraged, the agricultural professionals he mentored, the farming communities he served, and most importantly, the family he loved so deeply. He will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, integrity, compassion, steadfast faith, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others through agriculture and education.
Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Doris; his children, Kelley Barrentine of North Carolina, Kevin Barrentine of Georgia, and Kyle Barrentine (Whitney) of Indiana; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his sister, Laura Max of Tennessee; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Claiborne and Virginia Barrentine, and his brother, William Barrentine.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Fayetteville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Dr. James L. Barrentine Endowed Scholarship Fund.
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