Myrvle Barker

Myrvle Benjamin Barker, 95, of Nokomis, Illinois, passed away with his family by his side on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Pana Hospital in Pana, Illinois.

He was born May 2, 1931, in Audubon Township, Illinois, the son of Myrvle Alonzo Barker and Mary McCaslin Barker. On April 7, 1951, he married Thelma Marie (Hicks) Barker in Pocahontas, Arkansas. Together, they shared 75 wonderful years of marriage filled with love and partnership.

Myrvle proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran during the Korean War. After his military service, he built a life centered on hard work and family, owning Barker Motors in Nokomis and working as a truck driver. He later spent more than 20 years as a state supervisor for Henkel and McCoy in the construction and telephone industries. Myrvle was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church and the VFW.

A man with a generous heart, Myrvle found joy in working on cars and trucks and raising cattle and hogs. His steady presence, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Thelma Barker; children Myrvle Dennis (Rosemarie) Barker of Butler, Pamela Rose (Larry) Watson of Nokomis, Steven Michael (Elizabeth Michele) Barker of Vandalia, and Curt Wayne (Angie) Barker of Camdenton, Missouri; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and ten siblings.

A visitation will be held Monday, May 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis, Illinois.

A funeral service will follow at noon. Interment will take place at Nokomis Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded.

Myrvle will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family to assist with expenses.

Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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