Judy Kathleen (Bowles) Barker, 68, of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life on June 25, 2024 in Fort Smith, Arkansas surrounded by her loving family. Judy was born October 31, 1955 in Mena, Arkansas to William “Billy” Bowles and Dorothy (Wagner) Evans.
Throughout Judy’s life, she found joy in nature, particularly peonies, her favorite flowers, which she lovingly tended to as a dedicated gardener. Combining her love for plants with her passion for cooking, Judy owned and operated Judy’s 71 Diner in Waldron for a decade. Her culinary skills and warm hospitality made her diner a beloved spot in the community.
One of Judy’s cherished traditions was preparing Thanksgiving dinner at deer camp, a special time spent with her sister-in-laws while the rest of the family ventured out for a day of hunting. However, above all else, Judy treasured the moments spent with family. The memories made with them will forever be treasured.
Judy leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved spouse of 52 years, John Barker Sr. of the home; her three children: daughter, Deanna Silvey and son-in-law Kevin Silvey of Van Buren, Arkansas; her sons John Barker Jr. and Chelsie Justice of Waldron, Arkansas; and Thomas Barker of Boles, Arkansas. Nanny will forever remain in the hearts of her five grandchildren: Haley and husband Devin of Rogers, Arkansas; Deagan Keener and wife Ericka of Parks, Arkansas; Bryson Barker of Boles, Arkansas; Emily Barker of Fort Smith, Arkansas; Alyssa Barker and her eleven great-grandchildren: Erika, Olivia, Jameson, Ryleigh, Addisyn, Easton, Raegen, Kason, Rylee, Kayden and Braxton. She is also remembered by her siblings: Clinton Bowles and wife Theresa of Rogers, Arkansas; Brenda Althuzius and husband Ben of Garfield, Arkansas; Ron Bowles and wife Brenda of Seattle, Washington, Angela Evans of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Danny Bowles and Misty Ward. Judy will be dearly missed by her closest friend, Beth Milligan and a host of nieces and nephews she claimed as her kids and friends and loved ones that were dear to her heart.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents: William “Billy” Bowles and Dorothy Evans and one sister, Melissa Evans.
Judy’s celebration of life ceremony will take place at the Boles Freewill Baptist Church in Boles, Arkansas on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 am with Rev. Pat Ray Biggs officiating, where family and friends will come together to honor and celebrate Judy’s enduring spirit and the love she shared with all who knew her. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.
In the remembrance of Judy’s life, a public visitation will be held at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, June 28, 2024, at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
