From Winston-Salem to Mount Airy, people came out Friday morning to pay their respects and honor the sacrifice made by a local soldier who died in Iraq a week ago.

As area residents filled the intersection at U.S. 52 and Arlington Street waiting to show their respects, a minivan stopped and asked Mount Airy resident Linda Collins what the cars were stopped for.

“A van from San Diego, Calif., stopped and the gentleman who got out to inquire said he had seen all the cars parked alongside the road all the way up 52 North from Winston-Salem,” Collins said.

“He and his family in the van made comments that they were so glad to see the respects given to the fallen soldier.”

Collins joined others at the Arlington Street intersection, just one of many local crossroads where people turned out to show their appreciation for Barnard, because she knew Barnard’s family.

Phyllis Jones, her sister-in-law Mildred Jones and Mildred’s daughter Ann Hill also joined the crowd, which waved flags and placed their hands over their hearts as the hearse carrying Barnard’s body to Moody Funeral Home in Mount Airy passed by them.

Phyllis, a friend of Barnard’s grandmother, said, “The least I could do is pay my respects for the boy giving his life for our country. It is something minor I could do.”

Her sister-in-law agreed. She added, fighting back tears, “Becky’s (Barnard grandmother Becky Gordon) always been a long-time friend of mine, and I knew Leevi when he was growing up.”

Hill grew up with Barnard’s aunt.

Others who showed their respects weren’t familiar with the soldier or his family before learning of his death this week, but came out just the same to honor his service.

“We came out just to honor one of our fallen. He was fighting for our freedom,” said Bobby Hutson.

Hutson’s wife Virginia and their grandson Tyler Delph, who was slated to graduate from White Plains Christian School last night, also watched the procession pass by. Virginia said it was a “good educational experience” for Delph.

“I want to show my respect for this boy,” said Leota Jessup. “My grandson was in Iraq when this started out, and I always pray their safe.”

For Bret Sayer, the procession was a way to recognize one of his fellow military comrades.

“My husband’s ex-military, so he always feels the need to show honor for those (who have served),” said Char Sayer, as she held their 1-year-old daughter Gracie.

Albert and Jenny Cockerham saw the experience as their patriotic duty.

Contact Wendy Byerly Wood at wbyerly-wood@mtairynews.com or 719-1923.