Lynden Barry Spivey

Lynden “Barry” Spivey of Mount Ida, AR, passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born August 21, 1946, in Havana, Arkansas, to Ray and Jaunita Spivey.

Barry was a 1964 graduate of Havana High School and continued his education at Arkansas Tech University, graduating in 1969 with a degree in English. Following graduation, he taught English in the Ola School District. He later dedicated his life to public service where he served 24 years as a Trooper with the Arkansas State Police, including assignment to security detail for Governors Bill Clinton and Frank White. After retiring from the State Police, Barry served six years as Sheriff of Montgomery County and three years as a Justice of the Peace. Throughout his service, he remained committed to protecting others and serving his community. Of all his many accomplishments, he was most proud of his daughters and would share about them at any opportunity to do so.

Beyond his career, Barry was a passionate outdoorsman who loved to spend time in nature. Whether it was picking blackberries, fishing, hunting, or gardening, he enjoyed the calm and quiet of the outdoors and especially enjoyed sharing those hobbies with the ones he loved. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his enthusiasm for sports, particularly the Arkansas Razorbacks and the UCA Bears baseball team. He was always the first to share his knowledge and love for the game with those around him.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers: Sammy Spivey and Rickey Spivey and sisters: Velda McDowell and Anita Markle.

Barry is survived by his daughters, Sarah (Brian) Odle of Little Rock and Lindsay (Nick) Harlan of Conway, his brother, Charles (Sue) Spivey of Morrilton, his grandchildren, Madelyn Odle, Amelia Odle, Hazel Harlan and Walker Harlan, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

In keeping with his private nature, no services will be held. Your continued love and support are appreciated during this time. Arrangements under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mount Ida, AR. Guest register at www.thorntonfh.com.