Jack Lee Barker

Jack "Papa" Lee Barker, 89, of Forsyth, Georgia, passed away on February 8, 2024. He was born on November 22, 1934, in Hawkinsville, Georgia. Jack, a man's man, loved his family fiercely and led them in the ways of the Lord. He dedicated his life to serving the community as a trooper with the Georgia State Patrol, retiring as a Captain. Jack was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Marilyn Barker; daughters Karen "KB" (Jeff) Ayer, Deanne (David) McDougall; grandchildren Josh (Autumn) Ayer, Kirstie Ayer, Jackson McDougall, Olivia McDougall; great-grandchildren Annaleigh and Hadley Ayer; sister-in-law Betty Jean Barker and Martha Ruth Walker; nieces and nephews Danny Barker, Gary Barker, Janet McDaniel, Julie Strickland, Brenda Wellman, David Walker, Cathy Trentman, and Lynn Adams; and many great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Warnie and Isadore Barker; sister Emily Strickland; and brothers Alvis (Louis) Barker and Dan Barker.

Jack attended Hawkinsville High School and later Gordon Military College. He proudly served in the Army for four years. Jack's career with the Georgia State Patrol spanned several posts, including Post #26 in Thomaston, Post #30 in Cordele where he was promoted to Corporal, Post #10 in Americus, and Post #13 in Donalsonville. He was promoted to Sergeant and Post Commander at Post #44 in Forsyth, where he later became Lieutenant and Troop Commander. Jack retired as a Captain with Badge #14 in Monroe County.

Jack worshipped at the First Baptist Church of Forsyth, Georgia, where he found solace and strength in his faith. He was a Mason for over 50 years at the Hawkinsville, GA Masonic Lodge Mount Hope #9.

In his younger days, Jack enjoyed golfing and fishing. He and Mawmaw cherished their travels in their RV, visiting nearly all 50 states. Jack loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his great-grandbabies, Annaleigh and Hadley. He was an avid sports fan, supporting the Falcons and the Braves, but his true passion was cheering on his beloved Dawgs and anyone playing against the Florida Gators.

Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church of Forsyth from 1:00-3:00pm on Saturday, February 10, 2024, followed by a service at 3:00pm. A graveside service will follow at Monroe Hills Memorial Garden. Monroe County Memorial Chapel in Forsyth, Georgia, is assisting with the arrangements.

Jack "Papa" Barker will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

The family will be accepting flowers or donations to First Baptist Church of Forsyth, 95 W Morse Street, Forsyth, Georgia 31029.

We would love for everyone to wear red and black to the services. Go DAWGS!”