Jack Barker

The current Merriam Webster definition of “friend” is something like this: “(1) a person you like and enjoy being with; (2) a person who has a strong liking and trust in another person; (3) a person who helps or supports others.”  The updated local definition, at least for those of us who knew him, is “Jack Barker”.

Born to John and Marguerite Barker July 23, 1923, the Dunlap, Tennessee native was a veteran of World War, II.  Following his marriage to Mary Traylor Barker, Jack and his bride located to Chattanooga, Tennessee where Jack worked as purchasing agent for Mueller Company, and after retiring from there, worked for a time at Rone Regency Jewelers.

Jack was active in the Chattanooga Theatre, appearing in a number of productions, and also supported the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Association.   He loved music and singing and was talented in that regard.  He was an active member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Through all his vocational, avocational and faith-centered activities Jack became “Friend” to an ever-widening circle of individuals and families.  A card or note sent at just the right time when needed for consolation, congratulations or encouragement was his frequent gift to many.  One of his favorite sayings was a line penned by Thomas Markham.  “There is a destiny in life that makes us brothers.  No one goes his way alone.  All we send into the lives of others returns again to our own.”

Jack was predeceased by his parents and by his wife, Mary.  He is survived by his sister-in-law, Barbara Traylor Young of Columbus, Ohio, her three children, Lisa, Sara and Brett and a cousin, Tracy Murrell, and others in an extended family.  He is also survived by his surrogate children, Michael F. Adams, former President of the University of Georgia, Mike’s wife, Mary Lynn Adams and Jack’s friend and caregiver, Glen Edward Howard.

Visitation will be at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 650 McCallie Avenue at 10:00 AM Thursday December 2, followed immediately by a service at noon conducted by the Reverend Brandon Gilvin, with eulogies and remarks by Michael F. Adams and Alan L. Cates.

Suggested memorial contributions are to First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Chattanooga, Tennessee; The Mary T. Barker Scholarship Fund at Cleveland State Community College, Cleveland, Tennessee;  The Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Association; or Hospice of Chattanooga.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.