Allen Dean Barker, 74, passed away Monday, February 20, 2017 at his residence surrounded by family, after a long brave fight with Alzheimer’s. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and brother.
He was born in Bristol, Virginia and moved to Sheffield when he was thirteen. Dean graduated from Sheffield High School and worked for Frederickson’s as an electronics technician. With his family, he owned and operated Photography by Dean in Muscle Shoals for over twenty years and had so many customers who became friends. He also taught electronics at what became NWSCC.
Dean was a faithful member of Highland Methodist Church where he sang in the choir and was the leader of the Junior and Senior High youth groups. He was very active in SHS Boosters and Sheffield Little League. An interest in soccer came later with his beloved grandson.
After retiring, Dean spent time feeding, housing, and photographing birds, especially his hummingbirds and bluebirds. He worked diligently for years on his family ancestry.
Dean is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Carol Weatherby Barker; daughter Robin Stansell, Sheffield; son, Chris Barker (Ashlyn), Tampa, FL; grandson, Adam Stansell (fiancé, Alex Somers), Birmingham; granddaughter Lauren Workman, Tampa, FL; sister, Gaye Pratt, Sheffield; special nephew, Scott Pratt, Moulton; brother-in-law, Jim Weatherby, Decatur, GA; loving child of the heart, Debbie Slayton Whitley; and nieces and nephews in Bristol.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ethel Barker, siblings, John Barker, Helen Necessary, Annette Johnston, and brother-in-law, Warren Pratt.
A private family service will be held at Sheffield Oakwood Cemetery.
Thank you to Alacare Hospice for their help during this difficult time and special thanks to Deborah, Stephanie and Kevin whose compassion helped the whole family.
