Hundreds gathered at Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, last Tuesday, and many more watched online to honor the life and legacy of Cliff Barrows, who passed away on Nov. 15 at age 93.
The ornate sanctuary provided a beautiful setting for remembering Mr. Barrows, who took every chance he could to praise God.
Mr. Barrows didn't want flowers or a lot of frills. Instead, he only requested that a special blanket made out of Crusade shirts drape his casket. The blanket was once gifted to him.
Many shared memories of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's beloved music director—often mentioning his waving arms and big expressions as he led Crusade choirs. Here he is with Ethel Waters.
Mr. Barrows' daughter, Bonnie, talked about how selfless her father was. "Dad never liked people talking about him, and if they did, he would always turn the spotlight back on them ... and then talk about Jesus."
Mr. Barrows' grandson, Ben Thomas, described his "papa" as "the real deal"—a man who took time to make everyone feel special.
Ann Barrows took the stage, thanking everyone for loving her dearest "Cliffy" all these years.
Mr. and Mrs. Barrows often talked of how one was a blessing to the other. The pair married in 1996 after they both lost their spouses to cancer.
David Bruce, Billy Graham's longtime executive assistant, reflected on his times with Mr. Barrows. "Of all the things I remember most ... it was his voice."
Ann Barrows sings along with family.
Once speaking of Mr. Barrows, Billy Graham said, "He and I have been like brothers … all these years. And did you know Cliff and I, during all this period of time, we’ve never had an argument. And this is due to his wonderful spirit.”
Mr. Barrows wanted two things prominent at his funeral: singing and the Word of God.
Tom Bledsoe has shared many stages and led many songs with Mr. Barrows. At Tuesday's memorial service, he led the crowd in one of Mr. Barrows' favorites: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness."
Singing praises to God—something that always made Mr. Barrows smile.
The Gaither Vocal Band has numerous memories of singing with and for Mr. Barrows. At the memorial service, they performed "My Savior First of All" and "O Love That Will Not Let Me Go."
Will Graham grew teary eyed thinking of his "Uncle Cliff." At the end of the funeral, Will took time to read a letter from his father, Franklin Graham, who couldn't attend the service because he'd just finished preaching the Gospel in Myanmar.
For more than 60 years, Mr. Barrows dedicated his life to BGEA and serving God with his whole heart alongside George Beverly Shea (left) and Billy Graham (far right).
