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TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF PASTOR HARRIE THOMAS BARKER OF BARNWELL AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pastor Harrie Thomas Barker of Barnwell on June 24, 2020, at the age of sixty-four; and
Whereas, the son of the late James and Gladys Patterson Barker, Harrie Thomas Barker, also affectionately known as "Harris," was born on December 1, 1955, in Barnwell County; and
Whereas, in 1975, he graduated from Barnwell High School, later furthering his education at Denmark Technical College, where he received an associate degree in applied science. He worked at the Milliken textile plant in Barnwell for over twenty years and Jones Insurance Agency in Orangeburg for many years; and
Whereas, in God's good time, Harrie wed the lovely Cathy J. Barker, and the two enjoyed a marriage that lasted more than forty-four years until his passing. The Lord blessed their union with one beautiful daughter, LaShonda Barker, who was the apple of his eye; and
Whereas, seeking God's direction and guidance, at an early age he joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Snelling and was a faithful member. Answering the call of God, he became pastor of New Home Baptist Church in Barnwell and served until the Lord called him home after seventeen years; and
Whereas, Harrie was highly active in the community and had a deep concern for the welfare of the people. He was a leader, and it showed in his various affiliations. He served in the following organizations in various capacities: Barnwell City Council (2018 to the present), Barnwell Masonic Lodge #180 as past worshipful master, past district deputy of District 10, worthy patron of the Pride of Barnwell No. 77 OES, associate deputy KOP District 10, PHA #282 Consistory past commander in chief, past moderator of Macedonia Association, vice moderator of Macedonia Association, president of Barnwell Blackville NAACP #5576, Lonnie Hosey Council KOP, chaplain of Macedonia Missionary Auxiliary, and many other organizations; and
Whereas, Harrie Thomas Barker leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife and daughter, as well as two sisters, Delores (Tony) Womble and Gloria Barker; a sister-in-law, Lena Barker; three brothers-in-law, the Reverend Larry (Lareisa) James, Scottie Hagood, and Jimmy Hallingquest; six aunts, Juliette Glover, Barbara Patterson, Gloria Myers, Cherry Green, Patricia Lyons, and Mildred Barker; an uncle, James E. Patterson; and a host of other family members and friends. Pastor Barker, who will be remembered for the love he had for his family and friends, will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Pastor Harrie Thomas Barker of Barnwell and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Mrs. Cathy J. Barker for the family.
This web page was last updated on September 22, 2020 at 3:02 PM