Mr. Ronald “Ronnie” Edward Barger, a respected member of the community in Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on July 21, 2024, at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital with his loving wife, by his side.
Ronnie was born on Saturday, June 7, 1947, in Jackson, TN, the son of the late Farrice and Lorene Gateley Barger.
He led a fulfilling life marked by dedication and service. He started his career at the Milan Arsenal before joining Rockwell International and later the Firestone Corporation in North Carolina. Returning to Jackson, Ronnie became an Industrial Customer Service representative with TVA until his retirement in 2000. Even in retirement, he continued to make a difference by tutoring students at Jackson State Community College.
His passion for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. Ronnie cherished time spent hunting, fishing, water sports, and engaging in activities with his beloved grandchildren. He and Karen enjoyed traveling to a variety of locations, especially the beach. Education was a priority for Ronnie; he graduated from Northside High School in 1965 where he excelled in basketball lettering all four years. Subsequently, he earned his Engineering degree from the University of Tennessee in 1970 and held a Professional Engineering License throughout his career.
Ronnie’s gentle and intelligent demeanor left a lasting impact on those around him. Described as a simple man who was slow to anger but always attentive and wise listener – qualities that endeared him to many.
A dedicated individual both professionally and personally, Ronnie served in the Tennessee Army National Guard and was an active member and officer of the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers. He was also deeply involved in his faith communities, serving as a long-time member and deacon at First Christian Church of Jackson before joining Englewood Baptist Church with Karen in 2003.
Surviving family members include his wife of fifty-two years, Karen Hurst Barger; daughters, Alicia Barger Weaver (Chad) of Shelbyville, KY, and Christina Barger Jackson (Ty) of Rockledge, FL; as well as his grandchildren, Yasmine Young, Brock Weaver, Marissa Weaver, Dylan Weaver and Jesse Jackson. He is also survived by seven nieces and one nephew.
Along with his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his brother, Ric Barger and sister, Glenda Barger Duck.
A Memorial Service celebrating Ronnie’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024, in the chapel of Englewood Baptist Church, with Bro. Garry Miller and Mike Gilespie, former minister of First Christian Church of Jackson.
The family will receive friends beginning at 12:30 p.m. and continuing until the Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that memorial contributions be directed to Diabetes through the online address: breakthroughT1D.
His legacy of kindness and service will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, Tennessee 38305 731.668.1111
