Barker, Barbara Puffenbarger
Barbara Puffenbarger Barker, age 85, passed away suddenly in her loving husband’s arms on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, while attending Bible study at the Christiansburg Church of the Brethren.
She was born on March 14, 1941, in Pendleton County, West Virginia, to the late George Leslie and Ressie Dove Puffenbarger. Barbara was the youngest of nine siblings and a 1960 graduate of Franklin High School in West Virginia.
She married John Barker Jr. on August 25, 1962, in Richmond, Virginia. Barbara worked for many years in the vital records department at both the Richmond and Hampton Health Departments. In 1977, she moved to Christiansburg with her husband, where she joined Virginia Tech (then Virginia Polytechnic Institute) as an Administrative Assistant in the Economics Department. She had a wonderful knack for solving problems, guiding students through their academic careers, and offering a friendly shoulder or listening ear. She formed lasting friendships with her colleagues and students—whom she frequently referred to as her “other” children.
An active member of the Christiansburg Church of the Brethren, Barbara sang in the choir and occasionally played the piano and organ when needed. She truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures, especially spending time with family, friends, and co-workers. She eagerly looked forward to yearly trips to Myrtle Beach or Florida and was like a kid at Christmas when planning visits to her class and family reunions—always returning with photos and stories to share. Barbara had an uncanny ability to connect with people; complete strangers would stop to chat or seek her advice in grocery store aisles or parking lots.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, John Baynes Barker Jr.; her son, Christopher Barker; her daughter-in-law (wife of the late Daryl Barker), Susanna Smith (sons; Forrest and Ryan), and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Ressie Puffenbarger; her brothers, Dewey, Virgil, Bruce, Irvin, Carl, and Ona Puffenbarger; her sisters, Edith Winegard and Goldie Smith; and her youngest son, Daryl Scott Barker.
The family would like to give special recognition to Eric Neil Harris for his love and dedication to our family -he truly has been a blessing to all of us. Eric has been more than a friend to our family throughout the years. He has been with our family through the “tough times” with the loss of Daryl and now Barbara. The Lord definitely has angels among us. God bless Eric and his family for their unselfish kindness and support.
Special note: When Barbara passed into Heaven, she was surrounded by over 40 of her church family. The right time and the right place with the people she loved. A true comfort to our family and the outpouring of support and love each and everyone has given during this time. We love you all.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Christiansburg Church of the Brethren. Interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery, Christiansburg. Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The American Heart Association, Humane Society of Montgomery County (P.O. Box 287, Blacksburg, VA 24063), and/or Christiansburg Rescue Squad.
One Final Thank You, Mom
Thank you, Mom, for teaching us to be kind to everyone.
For showing us by example to never judge anyone
For always being there whenever we needed you, in both good times and bad.
For making all of our family gatherings and celebrations so special.
For sharing yourself and your whole heart with family, friends, and strangers alike.
For your unending courage and strength during the most difficult times.
For sharing your faith and guiding us to know God.
Thank you, Mom, for being yourself and making us laugh.
For laughing at yourself, finding humor in serious situations, and instilling that joy in us.
For giving us the comfort of knowing you are now at peace in heaven.
