Audie “Hoss” James Barton

Audie “Hoss” James Barton, a man who could give the shirt off his back and then some, took his final curtain call on April 30, 2023. Born on August 4, 1957, in Demopolis, Alabama, Audie spent his 65 years on Earth making people laugh, love, and learn. He passed away in Dothan, Alabama, after a courageous battle with cancer, but his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched.

Audie was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Bryant; his father, James Mosley; and his larger-than-life grandmother, Catherine "Kitty" Wallace. His legacy lives on through his loving wife of 26 years, Paula Barton, and their motley crew of children: Cody (Makayla) Brent, James Barton, Audra (Jeremy) Barton-McNelley, Callie Herring, Christy Barton, Jamie Barton (Derek West), and Jessica (Chris) Lee. Audie also leaves behind a whopping 17 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will no doubt continue to share his legendary stories and one-liners for generations to come.

Audie’s work history was as diverse as his interests. He spent time as a semi-truck driver, where he no doubt honked the horn for many children, and as a dairy farmer, where he likely had the cows laughing with his witty banter. His passion for animals extended beyond the farm.

An avid fisherman, Audie could often be found casting his line off the Pensacola Fishing Bridge, reeling in fish and friends alike with his magnetic personality. He was a proud member of the "old school," where people said what they meant and meant what they said. Audie was short, sweet, and to the point. You could catch him participating in chicken fights around the county. In the words of those who knew him best, "He was Audie Barton from Slocomb, Alabama," and "Even a better father than Spike to Tyke." Audie was a loving, funny, and wise man who never hesitated to share his unique brand of humor and wisdom with those around him. His down-to-earth nature and genuine kindness endeared him to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his legacy of laughter will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who remember him.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 pm Friday, May 5, 2023, at Paula’s house, where friends and family can gather to share their favorite "Audie-isms" and remember a man who truly made the world a better place.

So, as we say goodbye to Audie James Barton, let’s remember the laughter, the love, and the lessons he taught us all. Because in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, but the life in your years – and Audie’s years were filled with enough joy and laughter to last several lifetimes.