Barry Lee Osborne
Barry Lee Osborne died on January 3, 2025. He was 89.
Barry Osborne was perhaps the archetypal Renaissance man, teaching himself numerous abilities, languages, and skills over the course of his lifetime. Although most widely known as a foreign-language teacher at San Marcos High for 30-odd years, “Mr. Osborne” could also be found leading Balkan dancing classes, or simply joining in one of the several Balkan dancing events around town.
Others knew Barry as the Palm Tree Guy. He was possibly the most knowledgeable person in the county when it came to tropical plants of any kind, and palm trees in particular. He lent his expertise to several local landmarks, including the Santa Barbara Zoo, Ganna Walska’s Lotusland, the Botanical Gardens, and many more. Barry also donated palm trees to all of these places and more, and these beautiful trees will continue to grace our city for many years to come.
Barry traveled extensively, and he used those travels to expand his collection of plants from around the world. At one point during a drought period in the ’90s, Barry was able to document several hundred endangered species living in his back yard, gaining an exemption for water use to keep them alive. And although subsequent droughts forced a cutback in the number of plants, his collection of tropicals is still one of the most extensive in Southern California.
Barry had many other interests and activities. He was known at the Unitarian Church for his rich baritone, and for the unique flower arrangements he provided. He practiced calligraphy, taught himself to paint, built decorative walk-through bird cages and raised budgies and lovebirds and cockatiels, and loved to repurpose items: a wicker birdcage became a lamp; a ship’s porthole became an accent in an arched door.
But Barry was far more than the things he did, or the talents he shared. He was a warm and generous friend, a kind and loving husband, a dedicated father, a caring teacher, a gentle and giving soul who loved to laugh, to play, and to learn. Barry Osborne lived a rich and varied life. He will be sorely missed.
