William Bryan Barker

William Jennings Bryan Barker, age 89, of Linn, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2015, at the Linn Living and Rehab Center in Linn.

William was born on November 26, 1925, in Dover, Arkansas the son of the late Louis Andrew and Nora (Cornell) Barker.

William attended school in Dover, Arkansas.

On March 25, 1958, in Judge, he was united in marriage to Margaret Ann (Branson) Barker, who preceded him in death on October 26, 2008.

William served in the United States Navy during World War II in the South Pacific on the U.S.S. Lexington, U.S.S. Clark DD361 and the U.S.S. Sabic AK-121. William spent the majority of his service on the U.S.S. Sabic AK-121 whose crew members were eligible for the following medals: American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (2), World War II Victory Medal and the Philippines Liberation Medal. The U.S.S. Sabic earned two Battle Stars for World War II for its participation in the Leyte Operation and Okinawa Gunto Operations, to mention only a few.

William and Margaret owned and operated the Cedar Grove CafAC. near Linn and the Commercial Hotel Restaurant during the 1970's along with Margaret's Diner in Linn for 16 years. William also worked as a Security Guard for Pinkerton at Von Hoffman Press in Jefferson City for 20 years, retiring in 1982.

William was a member of Family Worship Center in Linn. He enjoyed reading and studying about World War II. He enjoyed being outside in his yard and garden with his dogs. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.

William is survived by: two sons, Tracy Barker and his wife Denise of Rowlett, Texas and Kevin Barker and his wife Stacy of Linn; six grandchildren, Bryan Barker and his wife Maria Luisa, Courtney, Shelby, Margaret Mae, Andrew and Leslie Barker; one great granddaughter, Robin Misha Barker; and a sister, Bonnie Harris of Dover, Arkansas.

In addition to his parents and wife of fifty years, William was preceded in death by a brother, James Barker.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2015, at Morton Chapel in Linn.

Funeral Service with Full Military Honors will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at Morton Chapel with the Minister Eric Braman officiating.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to The American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Missouri (897-2214)www.mortonchapel.com