Dr. Raymond W. Barber, 87, of Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, passed away on December 12, 2025. Born on February 25, 1938, Dr. Barber grew up in Akron, Ohio and graduated from St. Vincent – St. Mary High School in Akron.
He achieved a B.A. in History from University of Akron, a Master of Library Science from the University of Kentucky, and a Ph.D. in Education Administration from Florida State University.
Dr. Barber held library positions at the Summit County Library in Akron, and was the Librarian at West Junior High School in Akron.
After completing his doctorate, he served as an Assistant Professor of Library Science at Drexel University in Philadelphia. Upon leaving Drexel University, Dr. Barber was Head Librarian at the Penn Charter School in Philadelphia.
He was also an Editor for the H. W. Wilson Company in New York. Dr. Barber's principal publication was Senior High School Core Collection 17th edition, 2011. https://www.amazon.com/Senior-High-School-Core-Collection/dp/0824210867
In December 2020, Dr. Barber became a resident of The Hearth at Drexel, where he lived his remaining years in assisted living under the compassionate and excellent care of the staff.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00am at Saint Mary's Episcopal Church, 630 E. Cathedral Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to The Oliver H. Bair Co. (610) 449-8585