Gary D. Barker, Sr.

Gary D. Barker, Sr., 74, of Collinsville, IL, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Anderson Hospital, in Maryville, IL.

He was born on December 7, 1949, in Rector, AR, to Charlie S. and Wanda (nee Hicks) Barker. On June 7, 1969, he married the love of his life, Vivian Tenney, at the Baptist Church in Glen Carbon, IL. He attended SIUE and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in science.

Gary began his work as a Lab Supervisor for IDOT in 1968, until he was drafted into the army in 1970 where he served his country in the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. When he returned home, he resumed his work at IDOT until he retired nearly 40 years later.

In his free time Gary was a true outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially at Coffeen Lake and Lake Norfork. Gary also had an affinity for classic cars and could be found at car shows and classic car museums. Though most of his free time he devoted to the Lord. Gary and Vivian were both very active members at the Rivers of Life Church in Granite City, IL. He was a preacher and would help with services, teaching, and Sunday school.

Gary was a devoted and loving husband, whose partnership and affection were the bedrock of his family. His marriage was a shining example of enduring love and commitment. As a father, Gary instilled faith and character in his children, nurturing them with wisdom. His role as a grandfather brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. He enjoyed sharing funny stories, as well as cherished memories with them. He was a treasured husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie S. and Wanda Barker; siblings, Charlie "Sonny", Clarissa, and Rhonda Kay; granddaughters Alyssa and Andrea.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Vivian Barker; children, Gary Barker, Jr., Shawn C. (Jessica) Barker, Brian (Pennie) Barker, Paul Barker; grandchildren, Cheyenne, Nazareth, Noah, Sage, Cadence, Madelynn, Kain; great-grandchildren, Tadeo, Lillian; siblings, Phillip “Steve” Barker, Kathy Norrell; nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.

Memorials may be made to the Rivers Of Life Church, Granite City, IL.

Visitation: Thursday, July 25, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Service: Thursday, July 25, 2024, 12:00 PM, Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Clergy: Pastor Travis Watkins

Interment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery

Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.