Raymond James Barlow, Sr.

Raymond James Barlow, Sr., age 85, of Albany, Georgia, passed away at his residence on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Mathews Funeral Home at 11:00 Am. Interment will follow to Crown Hill Cemetery. Mr. Ross Powell will officiate.

Born in Ocala Florida to the late James and Pauline Barlow and lived in Albany most of his life, Raymond was known throughout Southwest Georgia as a hardworking businessman, devoted family man, proud veteran, and friend to many. He honorably served his country in the United States Army and later continued his service in the National Guard.

Raymond became a familiar name across the region through his business, Barlow Amusement and Music. For decades, he brought music and entertainment to countless establishments throughout Southwest Georgia, keeping jukeboxes playing and memories alive. His journey in the amusement business began while he was still a young man, learning the trade from Frank Cannon and Cannon Music Company. After years of dedication and service calls across the area, Raymond proudly purchased the route in 1981 and built a business and reputation all his own.

Raymond spent countless hours traveling the back roads of Southwest Georgia servicing jukeboxes, pool tables, and dart leagues. He fondly remembered many of the old gathering places where music once filled the air — W.M. Halls, The Palace, Rochester’s, Blue Box, Odell’s, and The Black Cat — along with truck stops and bus stations where travelers would stop to drop a nickel into a jukebox and hear their favorite song.

Even into semi-retirement, Raymond continued working alongside his beloved son, Raymond “Bubba” Barlow, Jr., who had accompanied him on routes since childhood. Raymond had a deep love for Elvis Presley, motorcycles, classic cars, and anything he could build or tinker with using his hands. An adventurous spirit, he proudly rode his motorcycle through all 48 continental states. He was also well known for his homemade Volkswagen Bug grill, his talent for working on cars, and his ability to fix just about anything he touched.

Survivors include his children, Bubba Barlow (Christi) of Albany, GA, Debbie Barlow of Camilla, GA, grandson, Dallas Mills and great-grandchild, Beau Mills and a sister Linda V. Barlow of Montgomery Al, and companion Ms. Faye Castleberry.

The family will have a visitation on Monday from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Mathews Funeral Home