He was born on November 28, 1935, and will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service in the United States Air Force, and his career as a semi-truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lucy Harrington Barto; his parents, Francis F. Barto and Mary Wynona Rearick; his brothers, Oscar, Bill, and Butch Barto; his sister, Dolores Doverspike; and his stepson, Mark Stanley; and his step son-in-law, Ronnie Reeves.
James leaves behind his cherished children, Jimmy Barto and wife, Jackie, Bob Barto and wife Chrissie, Billy Barto and wife Amy, Jerry Barto, and Christine Mahan and husband, Chris; and his sister Joanne Varney. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Billy Barto and wife, Vickie, and Vickie Reeves.
His legacy includes 12 grandchildren, 8 step-grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 12 step-great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Rhonda Reed and Jennie Ledet with Heart of Hospice, as well as the Veterans Home of Jennings, Louisiana, for their compassionate care and support.
The family will welcome the public for visitation at Hixson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff on Friday, November 15, 2024 from 10am until time of funeral service officiated by Reverend Bill Saxby at 12pm. Interment along with military honors will follow at Consolata Cemetery.