BBBTV12 Serving Anderson, Roane, and Morgan Counties
Robert (Bob) Burton Barker Sr., age 87, of Oak Ridge, TN, passed away on August 12, 2026.
He was born on January 9, 1939, in Benham, KY, to William Jackson Barker and Kathleen Marcum Barker. Bob will be remembered for his kindness, Christian attitude, strength, devotion to his family and an ability to fix almost anything.
He was preceded in death by his parents, W.J. Barker and Kathleen Barker; mother in-law, Tennie Alvis; brother in-law, William Alvis; sister in-law, Eileen Greene; sister in-law Debbie Barker; and nephew Alan Barker.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Edith Barker; children, Robert Barker Jr. of Texas, and Deb Barker of Tennessee; grandchildren, Samantha (Adam) Ortiz of Texas, Robert Barker III of Texas; brother, Bill Jack Barker; sister, Linda Barker, both of Tennessee, great grandchildren, Ryder and Zoe Ortiz. Bob is also survived by sister-in-law, Connie Alvis, niece, Ginger (Barry) Branam and family; as well as many extended family members.
Bob was a longtime and faithful member of the New York Ave. Church of Christ, amateur radio enthusiast and aficionado of Classic Chevrolets. Bob loved traveling with Edith, attending Lady Vol basketball games with his daughter, working on cars with his son, playing with his grand-children and great-grandchildren and anything to do with computers, power tools or electronics.
Bob retired from the Y-12 plant in Oak Ridge, TN, in 1993 after 36 years, where he worked as a machinist by trade. During his career Bob worked on many top-secret projects for the government. Bob leaves behind a legacy of love for his family and service to anyone in need.
The family is deeply grateful to the ICU medical team at Methodist Medical Center for the care they gave Bob during his stay.
Weatherford Mortuary is in charge of arrangements and services which will take place on Friday August 21, 2026 with a visitation in the chapel from 5:00pm-7:00pm and funeral at 7:00pm. Graveside services will take place Saturday August 22, 2026 at 11:00am at Anderson Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the NYA Church of Christ Food Pantry or an animal rescue of your choice.
