Carolyn Barker

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son…” “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” These verses were more than words to Carolyn Barker — they were the foundation of her life and the message she joyfully shared with everyone she met. Carolyn Barker passed from this life on January 22, 2026, at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and unwavering love for the Lord and for others. Carolyn was born on March 3, 1944, in Henderson County, Tennessee, one of ten children born to the late Graple Allen and David Mooney. From an early age, her faith shaped who she would become. She was a devoted Christian and a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Parsons, Tennessee. Friends often said simply and confidently, “Carolyn knew Jesus,” and anyone who spent time with her knew that to be true. She freely shared Bible verses with her family, her friends, and even strangers she had just met, always pointing others toward hope and encouragement in Christ. Carolyn began her working career with HIS in Scotts Hill, Tennessee, later continuing her employment with Maytag in Jackson, Tennessee, where she eventually retired. No matter where she worked, she was known for her strong work ethic, her gentle spirit, and her willingness to help others. Kindness defined Carolyn’s life. She was the one who called, texted, or showed up when someone was in need. She made it a priority to visit the sick, offering comfort, prayer, and a listening ear. She was also a talented baker, especially known for her cakes — often keeping extras tucked away in her freezer, ready to share whenever the need or occasion arose. Above all else, Carolyn cherished her family. She is survived by her beloved husband of sixty years, Junior Ray Barker; two sons, Jeff (Kim) Barker and Gary (Sarah) Barker; and four grandchildren whom she adored, Micah and Haven Barker, and Stone and Cross Barker. She is also survived by four sisters, Marlene (Ronnie) Brown, Sandra Mooney, Revecca Mooney Howard, and Cheryl (Dennis) Moody; three brothers, Lowell (Loretta) Mooney, Noel (Wanda) Mooney, and David (Brenda) Mooney. In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by two sisters, Georgia Tate and Mary Lou Miller. Visitation with the Barker family will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday and continue until the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be held Wednesday, January 28, in the chapel of Pafford Funeral Home in Scotts Hill, with interment following at Cedar Grove Baptist Cemetery near Scotts Hill. In lieu of flowers, the Barker family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization with which the family has a strong and meaningful affiliation. Carolyn’s life was a living testimony of faith, service, and love — a woman who trusted the Lord with all her heart and made sure others knew they could too.

Carolyn Barker

March 3, 1944 - January 22, 2026