Reggie Barker

Reggie Barker, age 78, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Mountain Home VA Community Living Center. Reggie was born April 22, 1948 to the late Grover Cleveland Barker and Georgia Blevins Barker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Elizabeth Rose “Putts” Novotny; sister, Cleta B. Hamm; and Auntie Carrie Brooks.

Reggie was a man whose life was deeply rooted in hard work and dedication. Raised on a hardworking farm, he learned the values of perseverance and commitment from an early age. As a proud Marine Corps veteran, Reggie served with honor in the 7th Marine M Company, 3rd Battalion during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1967, where he was a skilled machine gunner and a recipient of the Purple Heart.

Reggie had a profound love for the outdoors, finding joy in fishing and expressing his creativity through woodworking. His heart was also touched by the sounds of bluegrass music, and he treasured quiet evenings watching westerns, with "Gunsmoke" holding a special place in his heart. A devoted fan of Peyton Manning, he found excitement in sports as much as peace in simpler pleasures like making biscuits and gravy.

He took great pleasure in mowing the lawn and working outside his home, activities that reflected his enduring spirit and connection to nature. Above all, Reggie cherished his family deeply—his love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was boundless.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Betty Barker; children, Reggie Eugene Barker, Christina Novotny, Anthony Novotny, and Forrest Shane Barker (Ashlyn); grandchildren, Samantha Barker Hooper (Case), Bailey Barker Dodson (Loston), Andrea Trzil, Caitlyn Swanson, Evan Swanson, Gabriel Swanson, Alaina Swanson, Alora Barker and Finnley Barker; great grandchildren, Kenna Bray Dodson, Annie Hooper, Rile Hooper, Preston Trzil and Raidyn Adkins; brothers, Rex Barker, Tony “Tone” Barker (Carol), Chuck Barker (Penny); sister, Sylvia Barker; brother-in-law, David Wiley (Byron, MI); several nieces, nephews and cousins; special family friend, Lesa Pope.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mountaincityfh.com

The family of Reggie Barker has entrusted his care to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church Street, Mountain City, Tennessee 37683.