James “Jim” Arthur Barker, 84, of Franklin, NC, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026. 

He was the son of the late James Stanley and Rebecca Akins Barker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Judy Essen and Joanne Cloer; and brothers in law Andy Cloer, Arnold Carpenter, and Tommy Green.

Jim was a proud member of Patton Methodist Church, Blue Ridge Lodge 435 (Masons), and Nequassa 43 Order of the Eastern Star. He retired from the Macon County Sheriff’s Department, where he served his community with dedication and integrity.

A man of many interests, Jim loved to travel, watch NASCAR, play guitar and sing, dig ginseng, and attend Gospel Jams. His easy smile, steady presence, and love for family and friends will be deeply missed.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 63 years, Dixie Cloer Barker; his daughter, Angela Barker; and his sisters, Jeanette Overman and Tina Cox (Bullet). He is also survived by his beloved in laws, who truly became his second family: Johnny Cloer, Laura Green, Reba Rogers (John), Bobby Cloer (Anita), Brenda Holland (Gary), Glenda Cochran (Buddy), Evelyn Boatwright (Jeff), and Joyce Poteet. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 2, from 5–7pm at Macon Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 3, at 11am, also at Macon Funeral Home. Reverends Keith Newell, Eddie Evans, Phillip Cochran, and Russ Stewart will officiate. Burial will follow at Patton Methodist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Anthony Ray, Eric Boatwright, Chris Green, Tim Cochran, Mike Carpenter, Caleb Cochran, Jared VanHook, and Cameron Henry.

Honorary pallbearers include Damon Cloer, Deuane Cloer, Michael Carpenter, AJ Carpenter, Braylon Keener, Mason Keener, Clayton Keener, Lane Boatwright, Montana Boatwright, Emmlyn Green, Noah Green, and Kerridyn Cox,

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Patton Methodist Youth.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.