Willie Gene Barger

Willie Gene Barger, age 80, went to be with the Lord, Wednesday morning, July 13 in the year of our Lord 2016. Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Mamie Barger, older brother, Harvey Barger, older sister, Betty Gentry, one son, Rodney Wayne Barger, daughter-in-law, Denise Barger, and two grandchildren Britney and Lindsey Barger. Willie is survived by his wife of 58 years, Norma Barger, children, Lucretia Swafford and husband Glen of Mountain View, Gary Barger and wife Kristi of Hot Springs, and Jennifer Freeman and husband Chad of Quitman. Willie had eight grandchildren, Heath Holland and wife Katie, Heather Goins and husband Jamie, Seth Swafford, Vanessa Thompson, Chase Freeman, Caleb Freeman, Courtney Freeman, and Cayley Freeman. He also had six great-grandchildren, MaKayla, Landon, Kennedy, Karter, Kash and Lennox. He also leaves behind a whole host of family and friends. Willie left a legacy of service above self, and loved his family and the Barger farm more than anything. He was a devout Christian and a pillar at Howard General Baptist Church for over 40 years, and loved giving back to the community and its citizens. The world will remember Willie Barger as a man who spent his life forking for the Forestry Service, a proud deacon, and a man who donated to those less fortunate. His family will also remember his love for Cardinal Baseball, political discussion and a big bowl of ice cream. He gave the best advice and used his wisdom to show his love for those around him. There will never be another of his caliber and his family and friends will miss him every day. The entire family is so thankful to have been given such a special gift all these years. They know they will all see him again some sweet day, and we bet his mansion in Heaven is sitting on Mockingbird Hill. We loved you then, love you still, always have, always will! Visitation will be conducted Friday evening, July 15, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Family Funeral Service in Heber Springs. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers at the funeral service on Saturday, July 16, at 2 p.m. at Howard General Baptist Church. Reverend Glen Swafford officiating. Arrangements by Family Funeral Service. www.dwightfamilyfuneral.com.