Gary Barker

Gary Dwight Barker, age 85, of Pittsfield, IL passed away Monday, May 25, 2026, at Pittsfield Manor in Pittsfield, IL. He was born February 28, 1941, in Valley City, IL to James ‘Jack’ Eli and Clarissa Gray Barker. Gary married Jacqualin ‘Jackie’ A. Doyle June 27, 1971, at Pittsfield United Methodist Church and she survives.

Gary was a proud graduate of the Payson Seymour Class of 1960. He was a lifetime farmer, an auctioneer, and a longtime barber in Baylis, Illinois, where folks affectionately knew him as "The Barberman." When he wasn't working, Gary was happiest in a saddle. He loved trail riding and team sorting on his horses, as well as coon hunting with his dogs on his jumping mules. Coyote hunting with the boys was always a big deal to him, and if you ever wanted to hear a big fishing story, Gary always had one ready to tell. For over 50 years, he shared his life with the love of his life, Jackie Barker. His laughter could carry right through a room, and his quick one-liners could have easily filled a book. More than anything, though, Gary treasured the time he spent with his grandkids and great-grandkids. The family extends a special "thank you" to the caregivers at Griggsville Estates, Illini Hospital, Liberty Village, and Blessing Hospice for their compassionate care over the past nearly four years. 

Gary is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jackie Doyle; sons, Tim (Mary) Jeffries of Quincy, IL, J.D. (Melissa) Barker of Clayton, NC, John (Cathy) Jeffries of East Peoria, IL, and Justin Barker of Perry, IL; twelve grandchildren, Zach Jeffries, Brittany Greenawalt, Ashton Barker, Christian Barker, Josh Jeffries, Adam Jeffries, Jacob Jeffries, Mandy Jeffries, Ethan Jeffries, J.J. Barker, Joey Barker, and Madison Hobson; and thirteen great grandchildren, Bailey, Cody, Nora, Rhett, Josie, Emily, Eli, Ensley, Logan, Molly, Lyla, Waylon, and BennLee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Clarissa Barker; son, Jim Jeffries; and brothers, Kermit Barker and Gordon Barker.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Friday, June 5, 2026, at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL with interment to follow at Pittsfield West Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to be made to West Cemetery. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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