Joseph Steven Barker

Dear John, I am saddened by this news of Joe's passing. I have such fond memories of time spent with you both in Kentucky, it's hard to believe that so many years have passed since those happy days. Your love for and devotion to each other always inspired me. My heart and my prayers are with you and your families. "Good night sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

John, I hold you in my heart.

Say not in grief that he is no more,
But say in thankfulness that he was.
A death is not the extinguishing of a light,
But the putting out of the lamp
Because the dawn has come.
-Tagore

Joey holds a very special place in my heart. He was a blessing to all that knew him. My prayers are with his family and friends at this time.

John, so sorry to hear that Joe passed away. But, he is at peace and watching over everyone from above. His spirit will always be in our hearts. Love, Chris

John, I knew Joey from Mullens in the 70's, too. What a sweet spirit he was, and an integral part of my life back then. I only wish we had reconnected. My prayers are with you and all that loved him. We're all better for having known him, and Heaven's a little better now that he's there.

John,
I have wonderful memories of Joey and our days together in high school. He was a special friend, always kind and compassionate. May you find comfort in your memories and the life you shared together.
Elizabeth ( Liz ) Mullins Reece

John,I have a lot of great memories of all the good times spent with Joey and our "gang" back in the 70's in Mullens. He will be sadly missed by all of us.

John, your devotion to Joe and his to you was a beautiful expression of what human love can be. I am so very sorry for your loss, and send my deepest sympathy.

John, I am honored to have known Joe and been witness to his enduring dignity and the powerful love you and he shared. I wish you strength and support in your grief. Sarah

The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.

Joey and I were childhood friends growing up in Otsego - he loved animals and loved people even as a child. A very kind and gentle spirit. I know he will be greatly missed.

Oh, John, I am so sorry for your loss. May God bless Joe in his journey toward the Light. May you be surrounded and supported by the love of your family and friends.

John,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know that in this world, we are lucky if we find the love of our lives for a brief time (in this case, 22 years). We will all miss Joe, but know that his love will live on through you and your life and work. May his memory always be a blessing to you.
I wrap my arms around you and am sending you a big hug.
Much love always, John

I will fondly remember the kind and gentle nature you showed as a friend and neighbor, the enthusiasm and creativity you lent to our design collaboration and the inspiration you brought to everyone in living your life so fully. God bless you, Joe.

John. I am so sorry. My heart aches for you.
You are in our prayers,

All blessings to your families during this time. I'm so glad to keep believing in love.

Such a wonderful gentle soul . We will miss you Joe.Godspeed.

much love and fierce thoughts of support go to john, joe's family and all who were touched by joe. may we all become more connected by honoring joe's life and may the way he lived encourage us to live more fully. with deep respect, zap mcconnell

I am in awe of the beauty and courage of John and Joe. May angels sing Joe to his rest and wrap their wings around John .

"Death, be not proud, though some have called thee/Mighty...." Joseph Steven Barker will be missed by the community of which I feel a part. I admire his generosity and thoughtfulness in honoring the UVA School of Nursing and will honor his wishes.

Joe-you are sorely missed and wondrously loved. My thoughts are with you Johnny. Thankfully you have a big family in CVille. Very rarely do members of a family grow up under the same roof. Love - Jack Donahue

There is a little hole in my heart today.

My prayers go out to John and Joe's entire family. Live Arts is their gift to Charlottesville. We are very lucky for their foresight. Bless you all.