Richard Barber, who has helped change and save lives during his time as the executive director of Aspell Recovery Services, was named the Exchange Club’s Man of the Year for 2019.
The 74th annual award was presented to Barber during a ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Tuesday.
According to the citation, “There are clear guidelines in awarding this honor. This distinction is not to be given to an individual for work that falls within his job duties. It is for dedication and service that goes beyond his career or what he is paid to do. In composing this citation, it became clear this Man of the Year does not have a career. He has a calling, which he would do paid or not. There are no days off. There is no down time. Even when physically away, his mind, his heart, and his spirit are busy thinking and planning ways to help someone else mount their next hurdle. This Man of the Year is a true servant leader, humble to his core, and the keeper of an unrivaled love for his fellow man.”
Founded in 1979 by two recovering alcoholics, Bob Aspell and Charles Gay, Aspell Recovery Center is a substance abuse treatment center – alcohol and drugs – where residential and outpatient treatment plans are available – as well as transitional housing.
About 100 people a day are served on the Aspell campus.
John Nanney, vice president of Economic & Industrial Development at Jackson Energy Authority, who also serves on the board at Aspell Recovery Services, mentioned Barber’s strengths.
“This Man of the Year’s greatest asset is his caring attitude for those he serves,” John Nanney said, “His job is a ministry. He takes a personal interest in each of his clients and makes himself available at any time to help them work through issues that come up. And because of his true concern, he follows their progress long after they leave his program.”
Barber was born September 3, 1955, to William Haywood and Mary Maxine, and raised in Humboldt.
He would serve the country in the United States Army, attend Dyersburg State Community College, and earn his degree from Bethel College.
Barber, who was unavailable for comment, would become a dad three times over and a grandfather seven splendid times.
“This Man of the Year’s faith and encouragement has made me who I am,” said Frankie Elliott, who met Barber while receiving treatment for addiction and currently works with him.
(PHOTO: Richard Barber, right, receives the 2019 Man of the Year award from 2018 recipient, Dr. Melvin Wright)
