Emmett Lee Barran Jr., age 81, of Decatur, Alabama passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.A visitation for Emmett will be held Monday, March 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at First Bible Church, 3202 Spring Ave Sw, Decatur, Alabama 35603. Following the visitation will be a celebration of life service at 12:00 PM, officiated by Dr. Steve Bateman. Emmett will be laid to rest in Roselawn Cemetery.
Lee, as he was known by friends and family, is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Gay; his son, Emmette “Em” Barran III and wife Jill, and four grandchildren Shine, Rivers, Ocie & Clay; His son George and wife Brooke, and three grandchildren Taylor, Emma & George Arthur, Jr.; Barran & Henry Watts, grandchildren by his late daughter Traci (Scott); His brother, John Barran and wife Jane, niece Caroline Klingler (Ed) and two great-nephews, Jim and Jackson; niece Emily VanDerVeer (Nate) and two great-nieces, Anne Bridges and Molly, and great-nephew, Nate Jr.; His nephew, John Joseph IV (Annah) and two great-nieces, Claire and Juliet; His nephew, Charles Joseph; And His Uncle, Walter Rochelle, and two cousins, Angela and Glenn.
He was preceded in death by his father, Emmette Lee Barran, Sr., his mother, Martha Rochelle Barran; his beloved sister, Mary Ann Joseph; his brother-in-law, John Joseph III and his dear stepdaughter, Traci Sittason Watts.
Lee Barran was a proud son of Decatur, Alabama, whose life was defined by hard work, dedication to his community, and deep love for his family. From an early age, he became a familiar face in the area, appearing on White Way Milk Company milk bottles. After graduating from Decatur High School, Lee attended Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee, before earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance from The University of Alabama. Upon returning home, Lee joined his father’s real estate firm, Gateway Commercial Brokerage, as a sales agent, subsequently assuming the role of Principal Broker upon the elder’s untimely passing in 1969; wherein he remained until his recent passing. In his 50+ years as President and Broker of Gateway, Lee developed expertise in commercial real estate negotiation, shopping center development, and property management. His sharp business acumen and commitment to excellence earned him a reputation as a leader in the field. Lee was a tireless advocate for Decatur’s growth, playing a pivotal role in bringing new developments and industries to the city. His contributions extended beyond business, as he was actively involved in numerous organizations, including serving as President of the Morgan County Board of Realtors. He was also honored with the title of Director Emeritus of Compass Bank, a testament to his lasting impact in the financial and real estate sectors. While his professional accomplishments were many, Lee’s greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, father to his two sons and stepdaughter, and later, a proud grandfather, he cherished every moment spent watching his children and grandchildren grow and succeed. He was a dedicated member of First Bible Church, frequently driving home from his Smith Lake weekend home on Saturday evenings so he wouldn’t miss Sunday morning worship services. Lee’s legacy lives on in the thriving businesses he helped establish, the relationships he built, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who’ve known him.
Pallbearers will be Lynn Layton, Sloane Bibb, Michael Nance, Jay Partlow, Matt Inscho, Joseph Hill, Barry Nance, Dr. Jon South, Lawson Craig, Jimmy Lake and Gene Hamilton.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Bible Church Student Missions Scholarships.
Roselawn Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.
