James E. Barker, age 81 of Troy, IL formerly of Collinsville, born January 28, 1931 in Stewart County, Tennessee, passed away 8:34 pm on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at his residence.

He was a retired carman for the former Norfolk & Western Railroad. He enjoyed listening to country music and bluegrass; he also played the guitar and the mandolin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Jackson and Nora nee Christopher Barker, numerous brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife, Janet nee Delashmit, whom he married February 4, 1950; a daughter, Patricia (Mike) Brake of Edwardsville, IL; two sons: Kenneth (LuAnn) Barker of Litchfield, IL and Richard (Gina) Barker of Belleville, IL; a brother, Roy (Grace) Barker of Tennessee Ridge, TN;grandchildren: Chrissy (Richard) Schaefer of Collinsville, IL; Corey Barker of Litchfield, IL, Kenny (Gina) Barker of Litchfield, IL; oneother grandchild, and numerous great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 4pm to 8pm on Friday, September 28, 2012 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 North Center Street, Maryville, IL.

Funeral service will be 10:30 am Saturday, September 29, 2012 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Habermehl officiating. Burial will be at St. John Cemetery Collinsville.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.