Howard Vance Barkley Sr

Howard Vance Barkley, Sr., 79, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Idlewild Baptist Church in Matthews. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens in Mint Hill.

Howard was born on December 15, 1946, in Mooresville, North Carolina, to the late Margaret Novella Barkley and James Archie Barkley. He graduated from Hoke County High School in 1965 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from UNC–Pembroke in 1969.

Howard's life was a testimony of faith, love, and service. He spent his career teaching and coaching in four counties across North Carolina, ultimately retiring from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. A faithful member of Idlewild Baptist Church, Howard served in numerous capacities over the years. He was the past President and Treasurer of the North Carolina Driver's Education Association, a past member of Mint Hill Masonic Lodge #742, and a lifetime member of the North Carolina Coaches Association.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 51 years, Sylvia Barkley; daughter Noel Barkley Hamrick; son Howard Vance (Van) Barkley, Jr. and wife Courtney; grandchildren Chipper and Turner Hamrick and Adrienne Hamons; as well as three nieces and two nephews.

In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Lois Barkley Lee, and his beloved granddaughter, Bailey Nicole Hamrick.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Idlewild Baptist Church, Butler High School Athletics in memory of "Pops Barkley," or the Independence High School Baseball Program.