Earl F. Barker

Born September 11 1927 on White Top Mountain, NC. A third generation Cherokee Indian- drafted out of High School three weeks prior to graduation into the US Army Aircorp. Served 36 months with 30 months in Japan. Lt. Garrison, his superior knew he wished to be a full time pilot. His dad signed papers needed but his mom refused. Earl worked 7 years in the West Virginia Coal Mines. He was trapped 7 miles into the mines and was covered with mud and water. He was recovered by having a finger pointed upward and water was near his mouth and nose. He moved to St. Petersburg in 1957 and was hired by the Power Corp (now Duke Energy). He retired May 1, 1987 with 30 years of service. He married Sarah Barker on September 29, 1973 and they resided in Marion County, Dunnellon, FL until 2014, then returning to Pinellas county. Earl is a life member Mason as of 1958 of Nitram lodge 188 F&AM, a life member of the Egypt Shrine as of 1968. He helped MANY burned and crippled children being a Shriner. My most beloved and wonderful Earl for years spoke of his 92 children, the average number of children who are treated and have the best of care every month of every year by Egypt Temple Shrine Hospital for Children in Tampa. He will be missed by his beloved wife, Sarah. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Egypt Shrine Hospital for Children.