Donald Gerald Barker, 79, of Lexington, Tennessee, passed away on September 19, 2026.
Don was born in Lexington, Tennessee, to Thetus S. and Mary Opal Barker. He attended Lexington City School, graduated from Lexington High School, and went on to attend Jackson State Community College.
Don married Pat Jowers, with whom he shared his life until his passing, and together they had two daughters, Janyth Barker Grady and Christy Barker Terry.
Don proudly served for ten years in the United States National Guard. He took great pride in his military service and was especially honored to have his name displayed on the National Military Monument in Washington, D.C., in recognition of his service.
Don worked for the United States Postal Service for 35 years and later was a small business owner, operating Lexington Pawn for ten years. Through his many years delivering the mail and owning his business, Don came to know many people throughout the community and formed many lasting friendships. As a business owner, he supported numerous community benefits and causes and was quietly generous to those in need, never seeking recognition for his kindness. Don was also a 32nd Degree Mason.
Don was a quiet and loyal man who fiercely loved his family. While he may not always have been one to say a lot, those closest to him knew how deeply he cared for them and how important his family was to him.
Throughout his life, Don especially enjoyed being near the water. Over the years, he enjoyed owning a houseboat, spending time at his condo in Florida, and relaxing at his lake house. He also enjoyed playing the banjo and was an avid reader. These were some of the simple pleasures in life that Don treasured and that created many special memories with those closest to him.
Don was preceded in death by his loving parents, Thetus S. and Mary Opal Barker.
He is survived by his wife, Pat Barker; daughters, Jan (Tim) Grady and Christy (Jim) Terry; grandchildren, Kaitlin Grady, John T. Grady, Matthew (Katie) Grady, Kelsey Raymer, Kyle Raymer, Chelsea (Nick) Wall, and Stephen Terry; great-grandchildren, Parker and Callahan Grady; siblings, Kay (James Earl Ivey) Barker and Ronald (Cornelia) Barker; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Don and Pat’s close friends, especially Tami and Otto Petrillo, and also Chris Hays, for their friendship, kindness, and unwavering support of Pat during this difficult time.
In accordance with Don’s wishes, a private family service was held on September 29, 2026, with military honors recognizing his service to his country.
