Grace Barker
Alton |
Grace LaVaughn Johnston Barker peacefully passed away November 2, 2018 at the age of 92.
Her birth in Fidelity, Illinois on July 19, 1926 began a life of service to community and family. She definitely lived up to her name of "Grace" - no small order. She was the daughter of Court and Grace Johnston, who anchored a strong farming family.
Her marriage to George William "Bill" Barker on June 6, 1945 in Carrollton, Illinois began a partnership of 29 years raising a family of four children. When her children were growing up, she dedicated herself to supporting their activities such as leading a troop of Girl Scouts. Nurturing was at the heart of everything she did.
"I'm sure she's in heaven handing out hugs and pieces of pie," her family reminisces.
She inherited her love of flowers from her mother, and later in life expressed her devotion to all-things-herbs including their meaning, history, curative properties, and how best to grow them.
After her children were grown, she worked far afield-- cooking at Yellowstone Park and later on tow boats as they traveled up and down the Mississippi. But, when her family called, she was right there, without a second thought.
She is survived by her children George Court Barker (and his wife Pam) of Jerseyville, Keven Barker of Alton, and Cynthia Newberry of Alton, grandchildren Lindsay Burnett Smith, Nathan Newberry, Elizabeth Newberry, Kyle Chronister and 9 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband George Barker, her son Dan Lee Barker, her parents and 7 siblings.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 20th, 2018, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Elias, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home, 2521 Edwards St., Alton, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Community Hope Center, P.O. Box 124, Cottage Hills, Illinois 62018.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online condolence and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
