Wednesday, July 1, 2026 11:42 am

James Franklin Barker, age 87 of Forest City died Wednesday, June 24, 2026. James was born September 10, 1938, in Gaston County, NC but was raised in Hickory. He was a son of the late Reginald Clifford Barker and Eubulus Clark Barker.

He worked as a Heavy Equipment and Crane Operator for Duke Power Company where he retired. He also served his country in the United States Navy. James was the oldest member of Goodes Creek Baptist Church. He was a Little League Umpire for more than 50 years and a former member of the Rutherford County Rescue Squad. He volunteered with children at Forrest Hunt Elementary.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Peggy Waters Barker.

Survivors include his son, Kenneth Arthur Barker and wife Denise of Forest City, daughter, Teresa Barker Dalton and husband Kevin of Forest City, her brother, Regionald Barker and wife Pat of Lexington, SC, grandchildren, Ashley Jones and husband, Justin, John Barker and wife, Brandy, Mary Beth Coco and husband, Michael, and Lucas Barker and 11 great-grandchildren.

The funeral was held June 28 at Goodes Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Dale Welch and Rev. Kenneth Linder officiating.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.