Catherine Mae Barker

Catherine Mae Shirley Barker March 22, 1946 – March 13, 2023 Catherine was born in Montgomery, Alabama on March 22nd, 1946 to Rudolph and Dorothy Shirley. She graduated from Lee High School and then settled in Wetumpka as she started and raised her family. She loved to learn and over the years earned several degrees which she used to pursue a career as a teacher and librarian. She was especially good with young people and worked to impart to them a love of learning and finding joy as well. She was a vivacious person and when she entered a room, everyone knew it. She collected friends wherever she went and made a difference in so many lives with her generous and giving spirit. Catherine was passionate about the things in her life – family, teaching, music, friends, learning, God. She loved travel and adventure, and was especially fond of the beach. She loved music, especially the John Denver variety, and spent many hours singing and playing the guitar and piano. She loved to dance as well, and even learned to clog back in the day, which she delighted in showing anyone who would watch. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren, who made her Cati. She leaves behind her husband Joe Barker; children Robyn (John) Grecco, Ken (Rachael) Spivey, Steve Spivey; stepsons William (Kelsey) Barker, Brian (Elaine) Barker; grandchildren Macy (Trey) Bridges, Madison Grecco, Wade Morgan, Jake Spivey, Campbell Spivey, Sydney Spivey, Michael Barker; great granddaughter Ellie Bridges; sister and brother-in-law Delaine and James Brantley; brother Robert Shirley; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Dorothy Shirley. Visitation will be Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Leak Memory Chapel from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm at Leak Memory Chapel. Burial will follow in Oakwood Annex Cemetery. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the Barker family.