Jerry D. Barker, 86, husband, father, grandfather, friend,
attorney, veteran, writer, thinker, teacher and pilgrim died
April 25, 2011, at home. Born October 13, 1924, to Owen D. and
Enid Barker, he grew up on the island graduating from Ball High
School, attending Trinity Episcopal Church before serving in the
U.S. army, in New Caledonia, South Pacific, in World War 2.
After graduating from the University of Texas Law School, he
returned to Galveston joining other lawyers in his father’s law
firm.
Becoming aware of growing
renewal in the broader church, Jerry and his wife, Esther, with
their family moved to join the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer
in Houston, where they served in an international network of
churches and communities from 1965-1982. Jerry’s lay ministry
took him to live in England, Scotland, and Australia where he
supported, encouraged and connected individuals and groups. In
1982 he returned to Galveston to practice law until retirement
in 1992.
Jerry’s gifts were
primarily the gift of self and a deep commitment to serve
others. His daily life was infused with grace with a firm faith
in God’s redeeming mercy and kindness, especially for those in
need. Steeped in Scripture, Jerry was a gifted teacher, mentor
whose life reflected his beliefs. He will be remembered for his
encouraging nature, his deep laugh and quick sense of humor, his
commitment to his faith, his integrity, dignity and sense of
justice. An avid reader, lover of historical homes, an
enthusiastic traveler, a thoughtful mind with wide interests, a
disciplined daily walker, a talented writer of reflections and
life-stories, he welcomed the people and places of his life. In
his final days, he spoke with gratitude “for such a great life.”
Jerry is preceded in
death by his parents and brother, David. His legacy continues
through his family- Alison, his beloved wife of 29 years, sister Vonceil Hickman, his five children, Owen and wife, Kathy, Conway
and wife, Martha, Sherrell and husband, Edward, Brian and wife
Mary, Scott and wife, Marie, ten grandchildren, Leigha,
Elizabeth, Jonathan, Matthew, Jason, Amber, Keith, Esther, Mark,
and Sally and ten great-grandchildren, sisters in law, Jean
Bawtree, Katy Briggs, brother in law, Keith Allan, and numerous
friends worldwide.
Funeral service at 11a.m.
Saturday, April 30, Trinity Episcopal Church, Galveston. Burial at Memorial Park, Hitchcock. Memorials may be made to
Trinity Episcopal Church, Galveston,
Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, Houston or a charity of your choice. |