Joyce "Jo" Barker

, ME - Weld/East Livermore Joyce "Jo" Barker of Exeter, NH died on March 15, 2026. She was a lifelong health advocate always trying to help others. Barker was born in Mount Vernon, Maine on September 24, 1937, to Roscoe and Gladys (Williamson) Bamford. She spent several enjoyable years of her youth on the shores of Webb Lake in Weld, Maine. She graduated as valedictorian at Livermore Falls High School class of 1955. She continued her education by completing a RN degree. While working and raising a family she earned advanced degrees in nursing and public health at St. Anselm College, Boston College and the University of Hawaii. Barker is survived by her husband of 67 years, Richard "Rick" Barker, daughter Judy and husband Leroy Christophersen of Chico, CA, son Robert Dean Barker, of Flagstaff, AZ, sister Fay Barker and husband Robert of Livermore, Maine and her two granddaughters, Jenna and Lacey Christophersen. She was preceded by her two brothers Roy and Jim Banford. Her professional nursing career extending from 1958 to retirement in 2003. She was recognized by her colleagues, students and professional organizations. She was an active member of professional nursing organizations and many roles within her church. Later the New Hampshire Nurses Association presented her with the Outstanding Leadership Award in Nursing. Dr. Barker retired as the Director of the Nursing Education Program at St. Anselm College. She always thought of NH as her home. Joyce "Jo" Barker