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Eric Barker Obituary


Family-Placed Death Notice

BARKER, Eric MPO Eric Cecil Barker, of Lithonia, GA, passed Wednesday, January 16, 2008. Arrangements will be announced later by Goolsby Mortuary, 1375 Jonesboro Rd., SE., Atlanta, GA 404-588-0128 Express condolences at ajc.com/obits

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Jan. 18, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Eric Barker

Not sure what to say?





October 23, 2008

I can't help but to think about Eric and his family when I think about the loss of Ricky. May God shine down on us and continue to keep those that are affected by the loss of two great men who really gave their "last" for those that they loved the most... Be blessed! It's cloudy now but JOY cometh in the morning!

September 11, 2008

TO the Barker Family, you all are still in my paryers and just remember that an angel is watching over you all. God Bless

Choc

September 8, 2008

The death of Officer Barker has had a profound impact on my life. Being that I work within a mile of where the incident took place, there's not a day that goes by that I don't think of this great officer. Every time I go through that area, it saddens me. The things that are going on need to change. Brother Barker was trying to help make that change when he was called home. I feel that all things happen for a reason. It makes me realize that I need to stop being selfish and in some way give of my self, give back to my community, and make it a better place. Also, as a soldier in the U.S. Army, he just exemplifies everything that the Army stands for, what I aim to be. I am no longer trying to avoid going on a deployment or doing hard work. How can I be that type of soldier when I know if SSG Barker were on my team, he would have my back, square me away. I know that this is what I must do for others. It's not you that's important, but what you do that is. How you sacrifice for others. SSG Barker made me realize this. I know you, the family, have probably heard this a million times, but I truly consider him one of my heroes. Someone who was just cut down in their prime. I know that I will do my part to make a change, just as he was trying to. We should not let his death be in vain, but a reason to do something. Do our part. I keep you in my mind, my heart, and of course my prayers. Take care.

Herschel Grangent

May 27, 2008

It's been five months, and I am just now building up the will to write something. For that I apologize...
We went way back to our Army training days at Fort Meade, and lo and behold we wound up police being academy classmates as well.
You were one of the most genuine people I ever met, and just a good guy to the very core.
I will miss you and never ever forget you.

Miss J. Hale

April 5, 2008

To the Barker Family:
I am so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time.

Alicia Williams

February 4, 2008

I really don't know what to say, but I Love you and I know God Loves you best!

Ivy Faber

February 1, 2008

So sorry about the loss of your loved one. May you gain comfort in knowing that one day soon God promises to put an end to all sickness, pain, suffering and even death.
Respectfully,

Oliver Character

January 30, 2008

To the Barker family:
Words cannot express the deep shock and sorrow I have for the loss of Eric Barker. I served in the Army Reserve for five years with him. He will be missed.

Kathleen Fortson

January 29, 2008

I have been in prayer for the Barker family every since I heard of this tragedy.

I lost my husband in July of last year. He was in law enforcement also. He died suddenly of a heart attack. We have two sons which have been my inspiration to stay strong.

My faith in the Lord has allowed me to face each day;Even though some of those days have been very hard I know he is guiding me every step of the way.

Jesus is holding your hand every step of the way. Please stay strong.

Margaret Jackson

January 29, 2008

My prayers are with you and your family. I pray Gods strength and peace for you. Always lean on him for anything you will need in the days to come...we love you and will continue to keep you covered in prayer...

Dr. Ezekiel grant

January 29, 2008

My heart and prayers are with the family!

LaVon Harvey

January 28, 2008

To the family of this great young man,hold your head high,look to the almighty for strength at this time. my family is sending you all our love and prayers at this time.the harvey family

A B

January 28, 2008

To Yolanda and the kids I'm sorry for your loss. When the tragedy occured that was my first day on the job as a DKPD. I feel your pain and I aslo grive with you and your family.

January 26, 2008

We didn't know your husband, but our prays are with you and your family at this time of sorrow and after losing my father GOD lead me to the bright star in the sky and I say that's my dad so please feel free to use my star and talk your love one i find comfort in that bright star MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALWAYS

Cecilia Smith

January 25, 2008

To the Barker Family, my heart goes out to you all. I met Eric some years ago, we worked together and he was like a brother to me. He told me then that he wanted to be a police officer, I'm glad that he was able to do what he enjoyed doing which is helping people. Eric touched alot of people's lives, encouraging so many people. I know he will be missed by all. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers, I pray that the Lord continues to strengthen you.

Jimmy Lane

January 25, 2008

This man transcended all boundaries. Father, husband, Soldier, police officer, NCO, War veteran. He knew no color and there was nothing he wouldn't do to help out his fellow man. There are many people who have passed and I really didn't have anything nice to say. He loved his children. He was in love with his wife (he told me this in confidence.) I loved his sense of humor. He still makes me laugh even though he is no longer with us. I miss him, with all my heart, as do we all. Goodbye Eric.

Vilinda & Wendell Jennings

January 25, 2008

This special young man will be missed in DeKalb County. Remember him as another hero, gone but never forgotten.
God bless you all.

Tracey Flowers

January 25, 2008

My heart goes out to the Barker family. Sometimes we ask why things had to happen, but honestly we will find no solace in the answer. At those times we should kneel and ask God for the strength to cope with the situation. I have a feeling of sadness and hurt in my heart right now. But I know that God has a hold on the situation. From my heart to you. My love goes out to you (BARKER FAMILY).

chanterrica johnson

January 25, 2008

RIP you are in a much better place you will be missed

Nemo, Chaz, and Kim

January 25, 2008

May God Bless the family

~R.I.P. Officer Barker~

The Irwin Family

January 25, 2008

My Heart and my Prayers go out deeply for you and the family. Weeping may indure for a night but joy comes in the morning. Look to God he will show you brighter days are ahead. Please stay strong and God Bless you all.

Lyndsey Farmer

January 25, 2008

I am so sorry for your lose. SSgt Barker was a good man with a great heart. I will miss him. He was a great mentor and role model. He always had a way of brightening my day. I am sorry.

Trish Jackson

January 25, 2008

I just want to say thank you Yolanda and Mrs. Barker for lending Eric to the finest, DKPD. In your time of sorrow and grief, I ask that God put his hands on you to comfort you during these times. Eric is not far, but yet near. I pray for you and your family. May God and his angels hold you ever so tight in his arms to comfort you.
Amen.

Trish (DKPD)

TARA RANDLE (JEFFERSON PARISH PAROLE OFFICER)

January 25, 2008

My prayers are with you and your family.

C. Hendricks

January 25, 2008

So many share your grief. We pray that you will have strength to endure and carry on. Four beautiful children will someday know their father died a hero - protecting the lives of others. God bless you

Arica Westfield

January 25, 2008

I am so sorry for you loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. May God continue to make strengthen your family in your time of need.

Monique Johnson

January 25, 2008

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

DAVID WIGGINS

January 25, 2008

This is a sad day for America, when our youth die to protect the rights of freedom....My God stand and hold the Family...MOTORIDES

MS. CHRISTINE HILL

January 25, 2008

MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO MRS.BARKER AND FAMILY IN YOUR LOST NOT ONLY WAS HE A GOOD HUSBAND & FATHER & A FALLEN SOLDIER BUT HE WILL BE MISSED NOT JUST IN DECALB COUNTY BUT IN NEW YORK AS WELL HE IS STILL WITH IN SPIRT ME AND MY FAMILY WILL KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR PRAYERS BE BLESSED

PAUL EAGLIN

January 24, 2008

MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES. RETIRED SGT.32-YEARS-CHICAGO POLICE DEPT.I HAVE BEEN THROUGH THESE SAD TIMES TOO MANY TIMES, MAY THIS YOUNG OFFICER SOUL REST IN PEACE.

Kristina Kessler

January 24, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I dont know how to express how much I admire him. He is a wonderful, caring, generous man. I spent 5 years in the Army with him and have always been in awe of him, always will be. May God bless and keep you and your family. You are all in my prayers.

Cheri Gray

January 24, 2008

During this time of mass confusion and sorrow trust and know that the GOD we serve will comfort and carry you..My sincere condolences!!

Sherice Adams

January 24, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Sonja Terrell

January 24, 2008

To the Barker Family: My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. I'm praying for you and your family that God will give you the strength and that you feel God's love, more than ever. I also pray that God gives you the grace and mercy to continue forward for your family and that he continues to give you His knowledge wisdom and understanding of anything you ask for. I ask that you would not allow the anger to harden your heart. I know that it will be hard but God will see you thru this time. It is my hope that you also reflect on all the good memories that you all had together as well. May God continue to shine his light on you all and remember that God is the same God and HE will direct your path. You and your family will be in my prayers everyday. Be Blessed

Smith orisme

January 24, 2008

My deepest sympathy to the family.

Brenda King

January 24, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Joyce Armster

January 24, 2008

Yolanda, I'm praying for you that God will give you the strength. Once the family and friends are gone and you finally get a moment to yourself, this is the hard time. But just know that the same God that brought you through this far, is willing and able to bring you all the way. Each day I will say a prayer for you and the kids.

Kacie Lane

January 24, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Angela Chandler

January 24, 2008

I will keep your family in my prayers.

Avus Thomas

January 24, 2008

Hi Yolanda I went to Grove Park Ele. and Fredrick Dougalas High with you and my prayers are with you and your family and my God bless you and your beutiful kids.

Kenneth and Joy Lockhart

January 24, 2008

May God be with you and your family in this time of bereavement.

WANDA TERRELL

January 24, 2008

To the family: May you feel God's love, grace and mercy now and ever more as you carry on. It is with profound sadness that I write these words. God bless you all.

Denise Williams

January 24, 2008

As I sit here crying, know my thoughts are with you. God please grant this family strength.

Thercia Hodge

January 24, 2008

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles" (2 Corinth 2:3) May peace and joy overcome the Barker Family during your time of bereavement.

Chilsee Williams

January 24, 2008

Barker you will be missed, and to the family, My heart is pouring out to you in this time. May God bless you all. Many prayers,

Tonya Moore

January 24, 2008

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

charlsie Harris

January 24, 2008

May the Lord keep you stong so that you can indure this storm.

Venessa Pichon

January 24, 2008

They gave their lives doing what they believed in, there's no greater honor, for Christ gave his for what he believed in, His Father in Heaven. He's there for you now in one of life's weakest moment's reach out to Him, He'll comfort you and carry you through, until you can stand by yourself once again. Please don't turn away, He's the one that can see you thru. I love you with the love of Christ and share in your sorrow. I will pray for your strength.

Bonnie Hobbs-Wade

January 24, 2008

When somebody dies, a cloud turns into an angel,and flies up to God to put another flower on a pillow. A bird gives the message back to the world, and sings a silent prayer that makes the rain cry. People disappear, but they never really go away. The spirits up there put the sun to bed, wake up grass, and spin the earth in dizzy circles. Sometimes you can see them dancing in a cloud during the day-time, when they're suppose to be sleeping. They paint the rainbows and also the sunsets and make waves splash and tug at the tide. They toss shooting stars and listen to wishes. And when they sing wind songs, they whisper to us don't miss me too much. The view is nice and I'm doing fine. God Bless and keep you and the Kids, God is watching over you and your Husband is too.

Kenitra Halyard

January 24, 2008

To the Barker Family,
My deepest condolences go out to you at your time of bereavement. My prayers are with you.

Danelle Sanford

January 24, 2008

I will keep your family in my prayers. I loss my husband last year. He was a Deputy with the Fulton County Sheriff Department.

Mary Williamson

January 24, 2008

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the wife, children and family of Officer Eric Barker. May God give you the strength to continue. May you all be blessed with his everlasting love.

Cereatha

January 24, 2008

Yolanda, its been a while since we last seen or talked with one another. However my heart goes out to you and your family. Always remember God will be with you, just put your trust in him and he will not steer you wrong.

Feel free to contact me when you need someone to talk too.

Cereatha (Dwayne Commodore cousin)

SISTER IN CHRIST

January 24, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tiffany Nowlin

January 24, 2008

I will continue to keep the family in my thoughts and prayers, and pray that peace eventually reaches the heart of Eric's surviving widow and their children.

Jim Smith

January 24, 2008

A great loss for everyone.J.L.Smith APD(retired).

Ashlie Westbrooks

January 24, 2008

The Barker Family I send you my deepest condolences, and know that your son, husband , father, brother, and friend is still with you. God has him in his arms.

sarah Wyatt

January 24, 2008

I am praying for the Barker Family. Remember Earth hath no sorry that Haven can not heal.

Mike Harris

January 24, 2008

My prayers and condolences are with the Eric Barker family. May he rest in peace and in honor. I ask that God be with his family and give them strength everyday to continue their lives.

Kamesha Kelly

January 24, 2008

May God bless your family.

Claude Cosey

January 24, 2008

To the Barker family and the Dekalb County Police Department, may God bless and console each and every one of you.

MANUEL SANTIAGO III

January 23, 2008

MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOUR FAMILY....I UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU WERE DOING BECAUSE I'M DOING THE SAME THING IN CLAYTON COUNTY!!! MAY YOU SOULS REST.......

John Montgomery

January 23, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Thompson Family

January 23, 2008

To the Barker Family,

Out thoughts and prayers are with you all in this tough time. I would like to take the time to express my deepest condolences to you. From one Officer's wife to another, My heart goes out to you. I will pray for you and your family everyday. He was not only a husband, father and friend but I hero. I do not know you and your family, however, your husband was a hero. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers.

Rhett Charles

January 23, 2008

To the family, I too am a law enforcement officer in the city of New Orleans, and would like to offer my condolences. this is a sad time in the histroy of law enforcemnet. So i said, may god keep you and protect you, for one day you will see his smiling again.

marjorie hall

January 23, 2008

i am sorrow for what happen to your husband may god bless you

yashica howard

January 23, 2008

i want give you my sympathathy for your lost may god bless you

Johanna Harris

January 23, 2008

May God Bless the family and keep them under the shadows of his wings. Remember, the Lord is your Sheperd during trying times.

God gave Mr. Eric Barker one talent and I am so sure that he's welcoming him into heaven saying, "Job Well done my child" noting how he mutliplied that one talent into many. Amen

Tiffany Castillo

January 23, 2008

To the Barker family, my heart grieves with you and I pray for your continued strength and faith that GOD will help you weather this storm. I don't know you but my love goes out to you. You are not alone. May GOD continuously bless you....

Steven Schumacher Probation Officer

January 23, 2008

You and yours will be in our prayers...GOD BLESS YOU.

Sgt. 1st. Class James D Coble, U.S. Army

January 23, 2008

My heartfelt condolences go out to both officers’ families, friends and fellow police officers.

Eric was my friend, fellow soldier and brother.

My only wish is for everyone to remember him, as I knew him.

An exemplary soldier, law enforcement professional, devoted husband, father and trusted friend.

When I read details of the incident, I immediately knew Staff Sergeant Barker was doing what we had trained on many times during our shared deployments in Bosnia (97-98) and Afghanistan. (02-03)

He was faithfully backing up a partner.

Eric and Ricky are in a far better place now, and we shall all meet again in God's presence.

Rest assured, officers, we will provide your back up from here on out.

Sergeant "C"

Lakeshia and Lakea Griggs

January 23, 2008

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Police Officer

January 23, 2008

Rest in peace... Your in a better place my brother..

Doris Butler

January 23, 2008

To the Barker Family, Please know that God is an AWESOME GOD. I believe this untimely death is no mistake. God had something for your husband, dad and son to do. I am sure you will miss him, but be prepared to meet him again in his home on high. May God bless you and keep each of you.

Franklin Banks

January 23, 2008

I appreciate you protecting my brother while he was on the beat with you. My brother tells me that you were an excellent mentor and friend. Thank you and God Bless

Crystal J

January 23, 2008

i personally don't know either family,but i like to keep up with the news going on at home in ga. i read the article in the ajc when it happened and it just bothered me so much that something like this could happen to someone so young and that had such a promising life ahead of them . I myself and some in my family are in law enforcement and this just makes me become even more cautious.. My heart goes out to both families and may god be with you all through this difficult time.

Tracey Grant

January 23, 2008

May the Lord comfort you and the HOLY SPIRIT be present daily to console your family. I will continue to pray for your and your family.

Vanessa Selig

January 23, 2008

I am so saddened by this happening.I will be praying for your family through this difficult time.May God Bless You All.

charlotte monroe

January 23, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Teressa Hart

January 23, 2008

May God's grace comfort you during this time of sorrow.

Mary Griffin

January 23, 2008

to the family of Eric Barker:

May God bless and keep his brave, true soul.

Latonya Williams

January 23, 2008

To Mrs. Barker,

“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” Psalm 31:24

Eric and I were former classmates at Fulton High School (Class of 91). I was shocked when I saw his picture on the evening news today. I remember him as being full of life, energetic, and high-spirited. He knew how to make a person smile and laugh. He was a good person and I know you loved him very much. Remember the good and the bad, but mostly the good things about him. Those are the things that cultivated his character. My prayers and condolences are with you and your family. If there is anything that I can do to assist your family, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Christine Bellfield

January 23, 2008

May God bless and keep this family!!!!

P Lyle

January 23, 2008

May your spirit live on and your soul rest in peace. Thanks for all that you have done on behalf of Dekalb County Citizens.

Delisa lattimore

January 23, 2008

To The Eric Barker family, may God bless you in this time of sorrow,we are so sorry about your loss.We didnt know him but we appreciate his service to our country, may God bless you in this time of sorrow, Morris & Delisa Lattimore and family.

Jennifer Hendricks

January 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Thank you for allowing us (this world) to be apart of you and you apart of us. Thank you for your courage and love!

Rodney and Vicke Palmer

January 23, 2008

One day at a time Sweet Jesus.
God Bless

DKPD Officer and Wife

January 23, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Janice Marks

January 23, 2008

First I want to say to the family you're not alone. Lift your head and look to the hills from whence cometh your help. Today was a hard day for my family as well. Today was my father's birthday, but I celebrated his life different today by thanking god for allowing Mr. Barker for having a heart for people. He had served in every way he knew how he could make a difference. I didn't know him but the spirit allows us to see his heart. Just know that he will always be there for you and your kids. If you have questions just ask with your heart and the spirit will guide you from the love Eric has given you.

Judy Ellis

January 23, 2008

Dear Barker family, Please know you have been and continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. As a law enforcement family we know the support Eric needed from you to do what he so loved and your doing so is an expression of your love for him. God Bless and Keep each of you.
Respectfully

Gina

January 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family.

Janet Ferguson

January 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

c foster

January 23, 2008

Your sacrifice will not go unrewarded....Thank you and may god give your family strength.

LAVONIA HILL

January 23, 2008

YOUR FAMILY ARE IN OUR PRAYERS...

SGT L. DAVIS F.C.S.O.

January 23, 2008

TO THE bARKER fAMILY, JUST REMEMBER THAT GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME, I'LL BE PRAYING THAT YOU WILL GROW STRONGER WITH EACH MEMORY, AND KNOW THAT IN YOUR HEART IS WHERE HE WILL ALWAYS BE ALWAYS KNOW THAT YOU ARE LOVED AND STAY STRONG. THERE IS A BOND BETWEEN OFFICER THAT CAN NEVER BE BROKEN ( WE FALL DOWN , BUT WE GET BACK UP AGAIN)

Shirley Laster

January 23, 2008

I just want to offer my prayers and condolence to the Barker family. I do not know you personally but as a sister in Christ I share your grief. God's grace and mercy shall follow you.

Terrance Williams

January 23, 2008

To: The Barkers keep your head up high ever thing will be all right. with love from Mr.& Mrs. Terrance Williams

January 23, 2008

Dear Mrs. Barker & Family,
it is difficult to embrace a sudden lost. Moreso, it is unimaginable to accept the senseless loss of a love one. I have walked in the shoes of a a public servant (police officer) for nearly twenty years. I, too, mourn your loss. Over the course of that twenty years, I had the unpleasant task of bidding farewell unto two co-workers of similiar tragedies. Know without a doubt and abosolute assurance God will bring peace in time. Your love one is resting in the arms of the Almighty. Look to the hills from whence cometh your help. May peace, mercy and love abide with you always.

Mrs. Whelchel & Family

January 23, 2008

God WILL keep you and comfort you in this season of your life. Trust God. You're not alone.

Brittanee McCleskey

January 23, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

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