Roper Funeral Home and Crematory 206 Holly St Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 253-7500 (706) 253-0040 www.roperfuneralhome.com Fred "Barry" Weatherly, 79, of Jasper, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on June 28, 2026, following a courageous nine-year journey with Alzheimer's disease. Barry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp. Best known by many in the Bent Tree community as the founder of the Bent Tree Animal Shelter, Barry dedicated much of his to rescuing and caring for abandoned and stray animals. Barry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and animal advocate whose life was defined by compassion. He was a US Marine serving in the Vietnam War. While he enjoyed golf, coin collecting, movies and time spent with family and friends, his greatest passion was helping animals, particularly stray and abandoned cats. Throughout his life, he rescued and cared for hundreds of animals, believing every creature deserved kindness, safety and love. His commitment to animal welfare created a lasting legacy that continues to benefit animals in need. For Barry, compassion was not simply something he believed in - it was something he practiced every day. His legacy lives not only in the lives he saved but also in the kindness and empathy he inspired in others. Barry shared a loved and devoted marriage with his wife, Sue Foley Weatherly, whose unwavering dedication and care sustained him throughout his battle with Alzheimer's disease. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, laughter and a shared love of animals. Through every stage of his illness, Sue remained faithfully by his side, ensuring he was surrounded by comfort, dignity, and love. Barry is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Foley Weatherly; his son, Dr. Glenn (Shelly) Weatherly; his daughter, Tara Jones (Shailesh Kalyan); his six grandchildren, Chloe, Caleb, Grayson, Cas, Bowman and Georgia; his niece Kelley (John) Matthews and their children, Alex, Jack and Gavin; his dear friends, Tim and Lisa Lester and their family; and his cherished cats, Bogey and Pearl. Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Ann Weatherly. Although Alzheimer's gradually stole many memories and abilities during his final years, it never diminished the goodness, humor and gentle spirit that made Barry who he was. Those who loved him witnessed remarkable courage, resilience, and grace through his journey. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at 49 Horse Cove Court inside of Bent Tree. All friends and family are welcome. Barry will be interred at Georgia National Cemetery at 9:00am on September 14, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bent Tree Animal Shelter, an organization Barry founded and loved dearly. Barry's spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the animals he saved, and the enduring love he shared with family and friends. His was a life of purpose, kindness, and compassion-a life truly worth honoring. Arrangements are entrusted to the Staff of Roper Funeral Home and Crematory.