Jim was born on January 18, 1941 in Menominee, Michigan to Frances Melvin and Eleanor Beatrice Barker. After the family moved to Birmingham, Alabama, Jim graduated from Ramsay High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Alabama. Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force for six years, earning the rank of Captain.
Jim transitioned to a career spanning 30 years as a Logistics Manager in Transportation for Procter & Gamble and Buckeye Cellulose Companies. He retired in May 1999.
Jim was a life-long train enthusiast, an avid sports fan, and, during both his military service and upon retirement, travelled extensively. He was a member of Ellendale United Methodist Church.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Catherine; a sister, Janet Faitz of Crystal Lake, IL; two daughters, Beverly Bolt of Southaven, MS, and Wendy Barker of Bartlett, TN; a son, Jeff Barker and daughter-in-law, Kayse, of Trumann, AR; a grandson, Quinton Bolt and his son, Johnathan, of Cordova, TN. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A visitation for family and friends will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 27 at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Rd, Bartlett, TN. A celebration of life service will follow at 1:30 p.m., officiated by Rev. Gregory Taylor.
The family requests that memorials be sent to Ellendale United Methodist Church or to Wounded Warrior Project.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Barker family.
