Jerry Barling

The Honorable Mayor Jerry Barling passed away peacefully on October 4, 2018 with his daughters by his side. He was 73 years old. Despite a three-month battle with lung cancer, he was a true warrior until the end. Even on his worst days, he never complained.

His time on this earth was cut short but it was well spent. Jerry had a passion for community and helping others. He never met a stranger and considered everyone a friend. Family and faith always came first with Jerry. He was a good man with a good heart who will be cherished by many forever.

Jerry served the city of Barling for over 47 years. He began as recorder/treasurer at the age of 24. He was first elected Mayor in 1971, and at the time was the youngest Mayor in Arkansas. He served terms most of his life up until his death. Jerry also owned his own real estate brokerage firm. He was honored to work for the US Marshall Service for a period of time.

One of his passions, which turned into a lifelong career, was his interest in firearms. Gun City started as a hobby but quickly turned into a business that brought him much happiness. He always said, “if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Jerry is preceded in his death by his father, Frank D. Barling,; his mother, Mary Lee Barling; and sister, Beverly Mason. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lynnette Barling, of 54 years; his daughters, Jeneé Dederichs and Courtney Patrick and their spouses, Joseph Dederichs IV and Brian Patrick; two granddaughters, Sofie and Lola Patrick; one grandson, Joseph Dederichs, V; and sister, Sandy Clark.

Visitation will be held at Edwards Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 9th between 5:00 PM-7:00 PM. A celebration of life will be held at Community Bible Church in Fort Smith at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 10th under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Joseph Dederichs, IV, Brian Patrick, Trip McGehee, Joseph Dederichs, V, Austin Rowe, Ronnie Coleman, Jack Madden, Bob Reynolds, Frank Glidewell, Ross Morreale and Dale Lusby. Honorary pallbearers will be Barling City Employees, Barling Police Department and Barling Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the City of Barling for a memorial in Jerry’s honor. To place online tributes, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com