January 4, 2022

The City of Northglenn mourns the loss of former Mayor Odell Barry who passed away on January 2, 2022.  He was a dedicated mayor and civil servant and Northglenn will remember him fondly.

After his retirement from professional football, Mr. Barry dedicated himself to community service.  Barry was a mentor to Northglenn youth, a business owner and a proud father and grandfather.  After serving as a Ward 2 Council Member for 8 years, Odell Barry was the Mayor of Northglenn from January 3, 1980 to January 6, 1982.

As the first African American Mayor of Northglenn, Odell Barry was a trailblazer.  Mayor Barry will be remembered in part for his leadership in establishing a master plan for our city, building a city hall and community center, and supporting an $80 million water project.  Mayor Barry was also very involved in the region, serving on many committees.

I thank our former mayor for his deep commitment to our community and for having the courage to break down barriers. To honor his legacy, The City of Northglenn will continue to focus on the deeply rooted values of diversity, equality and inclusivity.

On behalf of the city staff, council and residents, I offer condolences to his family.  Northglenn was fortunate to have Odell Barry as a leader and he will be greatly missed.

Meredith Leighty
City of Northglenn Mayor