Carlos Arturo Barriga, 71, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away Sunday, September 20, 2026, at his home. Born March 7, 1955, in Queens, New York, Carlos was the son of the late Luis Carlos Barriga and Elvira Borda Barriga. He was also known as “Carl” to many who knew and loved him.
A proud graduate of Xavier High School in New York, Carlos later attended Johns Hopkins University and the University of Miami. After spending many years in Miami, Florida, he retired to Fort Payne, Alabama, where he embraced his new community and made the most of his retirement years. Carlos took pride in serving as part of the Chamber of Commerce and participating in community life. He also loved welcoming friends and family to Fort Payne and planning detailed itineraries for their visits, often including wine tastings, visits to local distilleries, and excursions to explore the area’s natural beauty, including DeSoto State Park. He had a special interest in Celtic culture and attending Renaissance fairs. Carlos was a faithful Jehovah’s Witness. At the time of his passing, Carlos was engaged to Sandy Marshall.
Carlos is survived by his daughter, Rachel Lange and husband George; step-sons, Kenneth Mayo (Deanna) and Kelly Mayo (Marlene); brother, Jorge Barriga (Sherri); sisters, Claudia Polumbo (Robert) and Martha Reidy; and step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.
Carlos was preceded in death by his beloved wife, June Barriga, and step-sons Kevin Mayo and Keith Mayo.
Those who knew Carlos will remember his distinctive interests, his enthusiasm for discovering new places, and the thought he put into bringing people together. His love of planning memorable visits, exploring the places he called home, and sharing his passions with others will remain part of the memories cherished by those whose lives he touched.
A memorial graveside service will be planned at a later
