TALLADEGA, Ala. – Former Talladega Mayor Larry Hugh Barton passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, with the love of his life, Mary, by his side just as she has been since they married in December of 1956. He was 85 years old.
The colorful and often controversial Barton served four terms as the mayor of his hometown.
According to his obituary, his tenure as Mayor included the city purchase of the Ritz Theater, development of a municipal golf course, the acquisition of two city parks, and the recruitment and expansion of over 100 businesses in the city.
Barton’s professional career began as a banker at Talladega National Bank. He also served as a barber and as a self-taught musician with a Gospel group called The Pioneers, who produced over a dozen albums during his time, as well as several stints as a media host with shows on television and radio.
