Dr. Charles Barron, an Emory alumnus and supporter of the school's swimming and diving program, passed away last week at the age of 97.
After graduating from Newnan (GA) High School in 1939, Barron enrolled at Emory where he received a B.S. degree (1945) from the University and a D.D.S degree (1946) from the dental school. While at Emory, he was a member of the Swimming and Diving Team. Over a three-year career, he specialized in five events and was often Emory's high-point leader.
In 2015, the Barron Highpoint Trophy was gifted by and named after Dr. Barron to honor the program's top swimmers. It was designed by Newnan sculptor Carol Harless. The trophy also recognizes Barron and lists the years he was on the swimming and diving team, from 1939 to 1942.
"Not only was Dr. Barron an active member of the Emory Swimming and Diving community over the past several years, but he represents the ideal role model for our student-athletes," stated Emory Head Swimming and Diving Coach Jon Howell. "He believed in the value of hard work with the ultimate purpose of giving back to others. He remained grateful for the opportunities provided to him, including attending Emory University and being a member of the Swimming and Diving team."
During World War II, Barron served in the Army Reserve, and was a captain in the Air Force in Fort Benning, Georgia during the Korean War. He began his dental practice in Manchester, Georgia, before returning to Newnan in 1954 with his family where he practiced for over 30 years.
He played an active role in the Newnan community while serving in leadership positions on the boards of the Newnan-Coweta Airport authority and the Newnan Historical Society. He was inducted into the Newnan-Coweta Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.
"He stayed active and intellectually curious, playing golf and taking college classes well into his 90s," Howell stated. "To the amazement of us all, Dr. Barron joined our national team in the water for a practice two years ago at the age of 96. His wonderful spirit and generous commitment to our student-athletes has left an impression that has forever changed our community for the better."
From left, Dr. Charles M. Barron, Newnan sculptor Carol Harless and former Emory swimmer Jake Stephens, whom the trophy was modeled after, stand next to the Barron Highpoint Trophy, which was unveiled at Emory University in January of 2015.