A Life Story

Barry Longwater of Savannah, Georgia passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026. Born on April 17, 1946, in Savannah, Barry was the son of William Longwater and Eleanor Mina Goldberg. Throughout his life Barry had a strong connection to the Georgia coast, beginning with long summers on Tybee Island as a float chaser and lifeguard. The water, the air, and the pace of it all stayed with him, even when life took him elsewhere. He attended Riverside Military Academy, where he excelled in basketball and football, earning an athletic scholarship to Mars Hill College. It was there he met Kathy and, not long after, became a dad to Bonita. Memphis became an important chapter in Barry’s life. He spent 25 years there, building a career with 3M and Gradco before launching his own company Advis Capital Leasing. He had a natural way with people, and what began as business often turned into friendships. His circle ran deep, and he was well-known across town. Golf, which was always part of his life growing up, became something more in Memphis. He fell into a tight group of golf friends at Ridgeway Country Club, and the game became a constant. He never had much patience for putting, but he loved the betting, the banter, and especially the 19th hole. It was also in Memphis where he and Bonita built something rare. In many ways, they raised each other during those years, forming a bond that was steady, unshakable, and the center of his life. Barry ultimately made his way back to Savannah, drawn home by family, lifelong friends and the water. He settled along the Wilmington River, where the days slowed down and the evenings stretched out into those unmistakable Lowcountry sunsets. His home became a place where people wanted to be and he was always welcoming. The oyster roasts, the Lowcountry boils, and the entertaining stories he shared, along with his natural ease and charm, made being around him infinitely enjoyable. Barry is survived by his daughter, Bonita Longwater Davies (Christopher) of Mobile, Alabama; his grandchildren, Bayden and Isabel of Charleston, South Carolina, and George of Mobile; and his siblings, Edwin and Miriam Longwater of Savannah. He is predeceased by his sister Elaine Longwater also of Savannah. He is remembered by his nieces and nephew, Chimene, Alesia, Paris, and Ryan. Barry also leaves behind Wildthing, his “26 year old” cat. A celebration of Barry’s life will be announced in the coming weeks. In honor of his love of golf, donations may be made to First Tee – Savannah.