Roger Clayton Barker
White Sulphur Springs-Roger Barker, 64, passed away Friday, Sept. 19, 2014, after an extended stay at the White Sulphur Springs Center of Genesis Health Care.
Roger was born Mar. 23, 1950, in Marfrance, the son of the late Chris L. and Lora Barker. Roger was the long-time bouncer at The Clover Club in White Sulphur Springs and later started his own security business in the Lewisburg/Fairlea area. Roger also played a convincing and realistic Santa for area churches, schools and businesses – especially delighting those who were surprised by a phone call from Santa or, even better, received a special pre-Christmas home visit. He will be missed by many who were blessed by his skills as a “jack-of-all-trades.”
Roger loved nature and the outdoors. After spending time in Arizona as a youth, he developed a passion for Indian culture and artifacts. His favorite times in West Virginia were spent exploring the hills and hollows. His favorite place was a house that he built himself on the outskirts of White Sulphur Springs on property bordering the national forest.
Roper is survived by: his daughter, Angela Braden of Fairlea and his grandchildren, Corey and Lydianne and Lisa Carpenter (husband ID) of Bethany; his siblings, Chris F. Barker (wife Jeannie) of Rupert and sister, Patt Legg, of Salisbury, NC. Roger was a beloved uncle to several nieces and nephews, and leaves a legacy of literally thousands of people who were touched by his warm personality and generous nature. If the true measure of man is the void he leaves behind, then Roger’s con
tributions to the world are truly immeasurable.
A memorial for Roger is being planned for 12 noon on Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Rockcliff Road residence of his brother. Friends are invited to gather for a casual potluck fellowship and time for sharing of memories before the spreading of his ashes. Those planning to attend should email ID Carpenter at mountaineer67@gmail.com, or call 304-639-0663 to aid in planning purposes and for directions and instructions. Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements.
