John Velton Barker

John Velton Barker, 78, of Roanoke, passed away Sunday, January 22, 2012. He was born in Eccles, WV, a son of the late Charlie Coots Barker and Hassie Halcomb Barker and had been a Roanoke area resident since 1976. He graduated from Trap Hill High School in Surveyor, WV in 1952 where he starred as center on the football team. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving our country during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He retired from the Navy in 1974. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Lillian M. Cangemi and Neda Z. Barker. He is survived by three sons, Rodney V. Barker, Robert J. Barker and Charles V. Barker; a daughter, Teresa Ann Barker; one brother, Lonnie Ray Barker and his wife Cheryl; two sisters, Nellie M. Cisco and Lyla M. Davidson; four grandchildren; nieces, nephews and a special friend, Effie Criner. Funeral services will be held at 1PM, Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, VA. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8PM Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, Salem. An online guest book is available for family and friends by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.