Friday, January 31, 2025

Dear Metro Family,

It is with profound sadness that we share news that longtime Metro member, Dr. Thais Barry, passed away this afternoon in California. As many of you. know, Thais had been dealing with some health issues for the last few years, and began experiencing a more rapid decline in the last few weeks. She fought hard to the end, and ultimately passed away peacefully, surrounded by her son (David) and her longtime caregivers (Bobbie and Iris).

Thais has been a beloved member of our Metro family for over 43 years, and it is nearly impossible to put into words the impact she has had on our community during that time. She was actively involved in various aspects of Metro throughout the years, as a former Trustee and a creative contributor to Metro worship through dance and movement. 

Dr. Barry had a long and decorated career as a professional dancer, instructor and professor. And more recently, Thais published her memoir, Up From the Deep South, about her early years growing up in rural Mississippi. "Her unforgettable tale is one of grit in the face of adversity, but also one of human imperfection and frailty, and the power of education to change lives." Beyond her professional and creative accomplishments, Thais was a proud mother to David, mother-in-law to Heather and grandmother to Walker, West, Wyatt and Wynn.

Thais' family will be finalizing details of laying her to rest in the days ahead, and we will keep you posted on all pertinent details. And while a more formal memorial service will likely be held at a later date, we will hold some informal space following worship this Sunday (February 2) for those gathering in person and on Zoom who want share brief stories or tributes and hold each other in grief. For now, let us hold Thais' family and caregivers in our prayers, and hold one another close as we grieve the loss of someone so very special to us.

There is no one quite like Lady Barry, and she will be desperately missed. We are thankful to God for the ways Thais strengthened our community and each one that was blessed to know her. May her spirit continue to be a thread woven in and through us. May her faith and resiliency be an encouragement to us and the legacy of her love and creativity live on through us.

With hope in the midst of deep sadness,

Pastors Tiffany & Jana

“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ~ Romans 8:38-39