Obituary of Roy Thurman Barker

Roy Thurman Barker, 89 of Bryson City entered into the presence of the Lord on Monday, March 26th at Memorial Mission Hospital following a lengthy illness. Roy was the son of the late Thurman Barker of Asheville and Minnie Woods of Hickory. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Jeanetta Earls Barker, daughters Diane Nations (Jim) and Susie Davis (Mark) all of Bryson City. He is also survived by three grandsons whom he loved dearly; Jason Nations (Gabby) of Cumming, GA, Derek Davis of Charleston, SC and Brett Davis of Raleigh, NC. Additionally, he leaves behind the sunshine of his life, 16-month-old great-grandson Jameson Nations who always brought a smile to his face as well as a multitude of cousins, nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Roy spent most of his career working in tunnel construction and worked all over the United States. One of his greatest pleasures was digging ginseng and coon hunting with his lifelong friends, Grady and Bennett Jones. Visitation will be on Friday at 12 PM at Crisp Funeral Home with the funereal following at 2 PM. Rev. Max Cochran and Rev. Brian Shuler will be officiating. Roy was a devoted husband, wonderful father, devoted grandfather and great-grandfather as well a loyal friend. He will be greatly missed.