Jonathan Seth Barrows ’94

Jonathan Seth Barrows, 51, a resident of Farm Road in Arlington, Vermont, passed away unexpectedly at his home on December 8th, 2023.
Born on May 1st, 1972, in Middlebury, Vermont. He was the son of John Franklin and Diane (Edgerton) Barrows. Seth was raised and received his early education in Dorset, Vermont. He graduated from Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester, Vermont, and later received his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine.
Upon Seth’s graduation, he became a commissioned officer in the United States Navy. He later served in the United States Air Force and had a combined total of 25 years of service to his country.
On August 19th, 2013, he married the former Marsha Moberly in Block Island, Rhode Island.
Towards the end of his military career, Seth became interested in brewing his own beer at home. What began as a hobby became a big interest to him. Following much research and practice, he decided to attend the American Brewers Guild “Brew School” in Middlebury. Following his graduation in 2017, he continued to hone his craft brewing for himself and his friends.
Before the pandemic began in 2020, Seth began planning what his life would look like after his retirement from the military. He decided to establish his own brewery where he would be his own boss. In February of that year, he decided to enter a lease for the building in Bennington, opposite the former Putnam Hotel at the “Four Corners” in the heart of town. Between the pandemic and his military career winding down, Seth actually believed the situation to be “Lucky” as he was able to build things up at his own pace and begin to devote more time to his budding business.
On February 12th, 2021, he was able to open his brewery, Farm Road Brewing at 400 Main Street in Bennington. He offered food such as small plates and pizza to accompany a rotating roster of beers. The beers carried locally and personally inspired names such as “Bronson”, “767”, “Black Pearl”, “Equinox,” and “I Don’t Know, Margo” to name a few.
Besides his passion for the Brewery and the world of brewing, Seth enjoyed listening to the Grateful Dead and Phish. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
Seth will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, comrade, and friend. As well as, a humble and savvy business owner who will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and community.
Seth is survived by his wife, Marsha Barrows. His children (from a previous marriage); Lauren, Jack, and Sam Barrows. His mother and stepfather; Diane Barrows-Johnson and Bruce Johnson. His brother; Justin Barrows (Anna). His nephew, Braeden. His German Shepherds, Chet and Ella. As well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Seth is predeceased by his father; John Franklin Barrows. As well as his beloved German Shepard, Bronson.
A memorial service for Seth, including military honors, will be held at 1pm on January 4th, 2024 at the Bennington Elks Lodge #567 in Bennington.