Plato Collins Barwick Jr., known fondly as P.C., left a profound mark on Kinston, North Carolina, and beyond through a life devoted to family, community, and professional excellence. Born June 28, 1937, in the Moss Hill community of Kinston, P.C. passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at the age of 87 at The Cypress Glen of Greenville. His legacy, built on unwavering service and leadership, continues to resonate in the lives of all who knew him.
P.C. was a man whose life journey reflected dedication to both personal and public causes. He was preceded in death by his parents, Plato Collins Barwick Sr. and Thelma Banks Barwick. Survived by his beloved wife Nancy Coston Barwick—his partner for 65 years—two sons, P. Collins Barwick III and G. Scott Barwick, and three grandsons, P. Collins (Lins) Barwick IV, Smith Williams Barwick, and John-Henry Lomax Barwick, P.C.’s family was central to his life and pride.
An accomplished scholar, P.C. graduated from Moss Hill High School and pursued higher education at Wake Forest University, followed by earning a law degree from Wake Forest School of Law. His commitment to service was evident early on, with his commission as an officer through the Army R.O.T.C. program. He served active duty at Fort Gordon, Georgia, and fulfilled his obligation with six years in the North Carolina Army National Guard.
For over half a century, P.C. practiced law with the Kinston firm Wallace, Morris, Barwick, Landis & Stroud. His legal career was marked by leadership and respect, serving as President of the Lenoir County Bar Association and representing multiple counties on the North Carolina State Bar Council. His induction into the North Carolina Bar Association General Practice Hall of Fame in 2010 underscored his professional excellence and dedication to the legal community.
Beyond the courtroom, P.C.’s impact was deeply felt in his community and church. A charter member and attorney for the Kinston Board of Realtors, he devoted almost two decades to advancing real estate professionalism locally. At St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, he served on the Vestry and as Senior Warden multiple times, while also acting as Chancellor of the Diocese of East Carolina for ten years—positions reflecting his spiritual commitment and leadership.
Community service was a hallmark of P.C.’s life. He held leadership roles in numerous organizations: president or chairman of the Kinston Jaycees, Kinston/Lenoir Chamber of Commerce, Kinston Country Club, Lenoir/Greene United Way, Lenoir Memorial Hospital, Arendell Parrott Academy, and the East Carolina Council of Boy Scouts of America. His passion for Scouting, where he was an Eagle Scout and a volunteer for over 50 years, earned him the prestigious Silver Beaver Award twice and the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor McCroy in 2014.
A lifelong political enthusiast, P.C.’s involvement spanned decades. Notably, in 1967 he and Nancy shifted their party affiliation from Democratic to Republican. His political acumen was recognized in his role as Chairman of the North Carolina Railroad Company during critical mergers and negotiations involving Norfolk Southern, where he dedicated six years ensuring the company’s future.
P.C.’s personal life was equally rich. He treasured travel, golf, and social gatherings with Nancy and their close friends. Above all, he was proud of his sons and their families. In retirement, he remained active through volunteering, particularly at St. Mary’s Kitchen, continuing his lifelong commitment to helping others.
Visitation for Plato Collins Barwick Jr. will take place Friday, May 16, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Kinston Country Club. The memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 800 Rountree Street, Kinston, with Rev. Tom Warren officiating. Interment of ashes will follow in St. Francis Garden at St. Mary’s Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church’s Mary’s Kitchen, Arendell Parrott Academy, or the East Carolina Boy Scouts of America—charities close to P.C.’s heart that continue his spirit of service.
Plato Collins Barwick Jr. was more than a lawyer or community leader; he was a man who lived with integrity, generosity, and passion. His enduring legacy will continue to inspire all who value dedication to family, faith, and the greater good. His light remains bright in Kinston and in the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
