Johnnie C. Barker

Johnnie Cranford Barker, 86, of Denver, NC passed away August 19, 2021.

Cranford was born in Mooresville, NC on May 25, 1935 to the late Dallas Verdon Barker and Blanche Howard Barker.

Along with his parents, Cranford was preceded in death by his brothers James Barker (Louise), Bobby Barker, Grady Barker (Doris), William “Billy” Barker (Ruth) and Vaness Barker (Mary).  Sisters, Geneva Barker Powers (Edward), Mary Virginia Barker Dellinger (Ashby) and daughter in law Annette Barker.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years Ann Kathleen Barker and his children; Ronny Barker (Bunny), Patricia Barker Parler (Bob), Sheila Barker, Johnny Barker (Lisa), and Trent Barker (Jennifer), his sister in law Gladys Barker, Grandchildren Haley Barker Glass, Dallas Barker, Tyler Barker Casella, Scout Barker, Emma Barker and Harrison Barker as well as four great grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Cranford worked as a Branch Manager in the printing ink industry for 44 years.  Some in business knew him as John, but those who loved him knew him as Cranford.  In business he was known to be a man of integrity and always to be fair.  He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.  If you knew him, there was no doubt you knew that his family came first.  Not just his immediate family, but the entire Barker family.  They were his priority.  He was the matriarch of the family; sitting, observing and loving each and every one of them.  His grin would light up and you knew he was glad to see you. There were times when his words were few, but there was no doubt you knew his love for his wife, Kate.  His quiet manner when it came to her, spoke volumes of his love and how he adored her.  They had a once in a lifetime love. You rarely saw one without the other.  He was an avid gardener and could fix and do anything.  Cranford loved his Fairfield Church Family and was sitting in his seat each Sunday ready to listen. He was there every time the doors were open.  His legacy of living life and honoring those he loved will live on in his family for generations.

A Graveside funeral service will be held Sunday August 22, 2021 at 3pm at Fairfield United Methodist Church, Denver, NC.  Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home of Huntersville is assisting the family.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Fairfield United Methodist Church, Denver, NC.