Kimera Anotchi Bartee
July 21, 1972 - December 21, 2021

"I recently saw a Tigers' game and I wanted to look up the person they were paying tribute to with their KB patches. I was so moved by everything I read about Kimera that I wanted to extend my deepest, heartfelt sympathy to everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved him. He was so obviously a very special person who had such a positive impact on countless people. I know what a difficult time that was for everyone close. I also know that Christ is with Kimera, and you'll all be together again forever one day. Please press forward using the promise of the future to buoy you, and the good memories of the past to enrich you. And never forget there are so many keeping you and Kimera deep in their hearts and prayers."

"KB was an inspiration as he helped out coaching and more at Northwest Christian School in Phoenix, AZ. I was the AD at that time and always looked forward to seeing him, to his comments on my playlist at Basketball games (he always was asking to play New Edition) or just having a conversation. I miss those days, and his presence. I am so glad to know he is in heaven with his heavenly father now. "

"Gordon Sinclair Jr. Winnipeg, Canada As you, well know, Jerry, I only had the opportunity of meeting Kimera once,. But that was enough to appreciate who your son was and why the tributes have such a common theme ? the uncommon trait of living with Grace. It was the summer of 2018 when, after not being able to locate a working phone number for you, I reached out to your son through the Pittsburgh Pirates front office. It had been more than 50 years since you and I had seen each other, or even spoken, and I hadn?t even known that?s you had a son. Until, while searching for you online , I came across Kimera and left a message for him with the Pirates front office. The message explained that I had played baseball with his Dad in the Cardinal organization land I was looking to connect with you. Kimera passed my message and phone number along. And you called. Later, It was you who would arrange when and where the reunion would happen. You chose a late three-game St. Louis appearance by Pirates so you could see your son and we could meet him. Another of our teammates, St. Louis-born Don Cooksey, would join us for our Glory Days Reunion. Before the first game Kimera would find time to join us for a tour of the Cardinals Museum and a late afternoon snack at a restaurant beside the ballpark. When we finally met and Kimera seemed low key for a Big Leaguer. Kind of shy.. But I had mistaken that quietness. It was Kimera?s innate humility and interest in others we were witnessing It didn?t take long to figure that out, though. We hadn?t spoken much that afternoon. So as we left the restaurant Kimera made a point of walking side-by-side with me,. Kimera had something he needed to share about the reunion that the message left for him had prompted and his Dad had arranged. ?Thank you,? Kimera said quietly, as he turned to me with that characteristically sweet little-boy-like smile. ?This has meant a lot to him.? But if I can now say, the reunion meant even more to me., and I dare say our old teammate Don Cooksey. Because we also got to meet your unforgettably gracious son for the first time. And, sadly, the last. My deepest condolences to you and his beloved mother. And to all who knew and adored who Kimera was born to be. The Natural. In every way. . "

"My deepest sympathy to the Bartee Family and friends. Prayers lifted for strength, comfort and peace. Fultondale, AL"

"My heart is sadden by the sudden lost or your fiancee, I remember the first time meeting Bartee at Dacula Middle School and thought Terri he is a keeper. Super sweet and kind. If I ever needed a sub and he was available I would try to get him before anyone else could. Terri my prayers and support are with you for the days, months and years to come. This kinda of pain can only be healed by God . I was glad our path crossed."

"I played baseball with ?Brick?. He had such a pleasant presence about himself, I appreciate it that in him. He was always himself and very humble. A very good reminder to all of us. He is with God now, I?m very sorry for your loss."

"Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and friends of Kimera. Thank you for sharing your life with us as children growing up at Clair UMC and being an even better adult and role model as an MLB player! Your impact on this world will never be forgotten. Dr. Yovanda (Deason) Horton and Family Lawrenceville, Georgia "

"On behalf of the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame we offer our sincere condolences for Jerry and his family. All of us involved with the Hall of Fame have the deepest respect for Jerry and offer our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time."

"Jerry, I was saddened to hear of the death of your son. I still remember you showing me his first major league contract. You were so proud. God bless you; we'll be praying for you and your family. I am unable to attend due to my wife's medical condition. Joe & Patti Neuberger"

"Sometimes there seems to be no reason. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God's grace and peace enfold you during this difficult time. Becky Schnabel"

"This can't be real life?! The Guzzardos loved you beyond measure. You are a treasure to us, and you will forever have an impact on our lives. We promise to take care of, look after and love Terri the way you would have. #ForeverKB"

"I'm saddened to hear of Kimera's passing. You good folks and family are in my thoughts and prayers."