It’s a name synonymous with most notable community, school, or sporting events–Peggy Barger. Barger has been capturing special moments for children and families in the Greenwood community for the past 18 years!
Barger was born January 10, 1956, in Mulberry, Arkansas to Tom and Dorothea Kincy. The second oldest of nine children, Barger attended and graduated from Pleasant View High School in 1974.
Her faith and love of family have always been a central part of her life. Barger, a former member of Fairview Baptist Church, now serves as the church secretary at Pleasant Hill Freewill Baptist Church.
Barger has three children: Amanda Terry and Husband Tim, Natalie Valencia, Travis Rowe and wife Michele. Additionally, nine grandchildren: Jestin Morse and wife Evy, Tessa Shea, Zen Valencai, Mason Hayes, Harley Terry, Josh Terry, Jolea Valencia, Gracie Rowe and Madie Rowe.
After moving to Greenwood to be closer to her family, Barger would meet and marry her husband of 14 years, Robert.
Although Barger was raised in Van Buren, she feels very thankful to be closeby to her family. “I’m very thankful for the family that God has given me. I love family gatherings and the special times when we can all be at the same church,” Barger shared.
The close proximity to her family has allowed her to pursue a passion she is most noted for–photography. “It is my passion, being able to capture the lives of my children, grandchildren, and family in pictures,” Barger added. “I have been very blessed to capture five of my grandchildren’s senior year and take pictures of my oldest grandson Jestin when he graduated from basic in San Antonio and technical school for Air National Guard. I’m looking forward to taking pictures of my two grandchildren, who are graduating college this year, Zen from ATU/History Teacher and Tessa from UAFS/Nursing.”
Capturing special moments has always been important to Barger. In fact, it’s a talent she is eager to share with others! “I have enjoyed taking pictures ever since my children played sports from boys club, travel softball, and then high school. Then when the grandchildren came along I started to follow them and take pictures, sometimes my calendar was very full with the different sports and schools. I love sharing the photos with the players, parents, and grandparents”
That passion led to Barger volunteering her time with the Greenwood Dog Pound. According to her, pictures are important as they tell a story and afford us that walk down memory lane, with a time to reflect on precious memories of loved ones who have passed. Capturing those special moments in time is something for parents and grandparents to cherish. That is a gift she plans to continue sharing with her family, friends, and neighbors.
“All the credit belongs to God. I am so thankful for all He has done and I was blessed to retire at 62 and do what brings so much enjoyment.”
-Peggy Barger
Barger, who worked at Whirlpool for 30 years, was able to go back to school after the plant closed in 2012. She completed her BAS in Human Resource in 2004 from the University of Arkansas. Since retiring, Barger enjoys road trips to Canton Texas, Antique and Vintage Days Shows, and taking pictures of old barns, houses and churches.
“My greatest accomplishment in life is my children, grandchildren, and being able to help my mom who passed in August of 2020,” Barger reflected.
Barger’s own story is best told, perhaps not with words, but through photographs!
