Arthur Jay Barker

Jay,

As I remember you, aviation only serves a backdrop. Yes, you were a conscientious, gifted pilot. It was fun to fly with you, and I (almost) always learned something new (well; you have to remember who you were working with). But more importantly; you were a conscientious, gifted, caring person. You always seemed to have time for people -- a soft word, a quick smile, and some new adventure story to share. There was an impressive strength in your humility and gentleness...

Dear Art/Bart/Jay,

I'll never be able to pick up a green pen without thinking of you. And you didn't even ask me to proof read your obit! Gee, I wonder why!!

I'll miss you my friend. But you'll always be with me in spirit, because you made a difference in my life. You helped me discover who I was; you made me a better person. I'll always remember...ALWAYS!

Thank you, my friend. Enjoy your cloud! God Bless!

Jay was always a friend -- he'll always be missed.

Although Jay and I were both Air Force pilots, I first met Jay at World Airways MD-11 initial training in Long Beach, CA in 1993.
My first impression of Jay was a person who was genuine and caring. He seemed to always have a positive and optimistic outlook on life. I remember a few years later when we were on a layover in Honolulu and Jay and I went out and enjoyed a delicious fish dinner in Waikiki. Jay had just recently finished Captain upgrade training and I was in the middle of...

I am saddened by learning of Jay's "going west" on his last solo flight. I am glad he was able to be with his famaily during those final hours,and visited by his friends. I am also thankful for the opportunity he had to continue flying as long as possible- to enjoy as a gift,every additional moment of being part of the heavens-above the earth-and part of the elements;that special bond with the rest of us who remain-and who have gone before.

To those that accompanied him on those...

Jay,
I'll be listening for your voice in a gospel quartet singing loud and singing proud when we meet again. Was nice to have a chance to get to know you a little and even nicer flying with you. Happy contrails.

It has been a long time since we met as "kids" in 1969 at Williams AFB for Pilot Training. Art was the symbol of love, humor, and decency back then, and, throughout the 36 years between, it has been a pleasure to watch him stay just the same. If ever I needed a friend, he was always just a phone call away. It hurts to think of a world without Bart Farkel; but, oh, the memories are sweet! Condolences to Art's "family;" I share your grief.

Ken Rash, Captain, Northwest Airlines

I was priveledged to cross paths with Jay on several occaisions, but I think we actually flew together only once or twice. A gentleman, class act, a professional. Always a good word, incapable of running around with his hair on fire, both figuratively and literally. After flying in from Europe, he passed the plane on to me on a 35 degree below zero January morning in Bangor Maine (fastest walkaround I ever did). He stayed on the plane as I took it to Riverside, and I considered it a...

Jay was a big man with a big smile and an appetite to match. He was a pleasure to be around whether in the cockpit or socializing after a flight. My deepest sympathy to his family and partner.