Born March 9, 1935, in Catawba County, he was a dedicated husband and father and a loving grandfather and great grandfather. He was the son of the late Harry McKinley and Nellie Bost Barger. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by three sisters Lois Arrowood, Burnell Clontz and Betty Jean Martin and four brothers Jessie Lee Barger, Cecil Barger, Everett Barger and Ray Barger.
Richard spent his entire working career as an employee of Century Furniture Company in Hickory, and was a longtime member of what was formerly Church of The Master in Hickory. He spent many years playing Santa Claus and giving candy to the youth of the church during the Christmas season. His passions included deep-sea fishing and among his favorite places to visit was Myrtle Beach, SC.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jeanette Matthews Barger of the home; sons Ricky Barger of Charlotte and Danny Barger of Lenoir; granddaughters Jennifer Barger of Hudson and Samantha Barger of Lenoir; great grandsons Bradley Barger, Andrew Barger and Mason Kidd of Hudson, and great granddaughter Chloe Kidd of Hudson.
Richard will be missed by those who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on July 21, 2020, at 3:00pm at Catawba Funeral Home with Rev. Sandi Hood officiating.
The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Burial will follow the service at Catawba Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Peace United Church of Christ at 2230 29th Ave Dr. NE, Hickory, NC 28601.
Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialpark.com.
The Barger Family is under the care of Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations.
