Julia Irene Barker

Julia Irene Barker, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, in Midway, Georgia, at the age of 93. Born on August 11, 1931, in Furman, South Carolina, Irene lived a life marked by deep devotion—to her family, her community, and her faith.

Irene was a lifelong servant to those around her, always ready with a helping hand, a warm meal, or a kind word. She found joy in the simple and beautiful parts of life—birdwatching, fishing, tending to her garden, and cooking large meals that gathered generations around her table. Her kitchen was filled not just with the aroma of delicious food, but with laughter, stories, and love.

She was first married to the late John Wilson and later to the late Will Barker, both of whom she deeply loved and honored. She was also proceeded in death by her sons Charles Wilson (Bobbi) and Frank Wilson (Ellen).  She is survived by her loving daughters, Judy Hellgren and Sara Ann Stanley.

She was the adored grandmother of Andrew, Bonnie, Brandon, Charles, Christopher, Jamie, Janet, Jeffrey, Jessica, Lori, Robert, and Ron (deceased).

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren Caleb, Cliff, Connor, Glen, Isabella, Lee, Natalie, Nick, Scott, Trevor, Zachery.

Irene was also blessed with cherished great-great-grandchildren, whose lives are already touched by her enduring spirit.

She was the daughter of the late Redden Tuten Sr. and Virie Crapse. Irene was preceded in death by her siblings: Barney Tuten (Leah), Clotele Hadwin (Joe), Danny Tuten (Cathy), Redden Tuten Jr. (Gloria), and Wilbur Tuten (Ailene). She is survived by her loving sister Hattie Stanley (Ray), with whom she shared many cherished memories.

She was also blessed with numerous nieces and nephews.

A strong woman of faith, Irene served as the elder of Robertville Baptist Church, where she was a spiritual rock and guiding light for many. Her faith was the foundation of her life and the source of her boundless compassion.

A celebration of Irene's life will be held at Robertville Baptist Church on Friday, April 11, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM with the viewing then followed by the ceremony and committal service at 11:00 AM. All who were touched by her love, kindness, and generosity are welcome to attend and honor her memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Julia Irene Memorial Fund, which will be used to memorialize her legacy at Robertville Baptist Church—a place that held her heart for so many years.

Though she has left this earthly home, Julia Irene Barker's legacy of faith, family, and selfless love will continue to blossom in the lives of all who knew her.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Barker family during this time.