Jacqueline "Jackie" Lee Barker

Jackie was born on March 29, 1935, in Carlsbad, New Mexico to Chester and Jennie (Elliott) Bretz while the family was on a trip. She was raised in Glen Wild, New York until her family moved to Salem, Oregon in 1944. The family included older brother, John Daniel Bretz, and younger sister, Joyce (Bretz) Smith.

Jackie graduated from Salem High School (now North Salem High School) in 1952.

Jackie married Daryl Barker on August 6, 1966 and had three children: Dennis Barker; and twins Jill (Dane) Gjesdal; and Amy (George) Goesch. They had 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daryl Eugene Barker; brother, John Daniel Bretz; and grandson, Micha Barker.

Jackie was an original employee of the State Farm Regional Office in Salem, Oregon that opened in 1957. She held several positions while there, retiring as an underwriting assistant in 1999 after 42 years with the company.

Jackie was a member of the Salem First Free Methodist Church for over 50 years and had a passion for volunteering and supporting missions. She could be found serving whenever the doors were open. Over the years she was involved in many areas of ministry: children, seniors, secret pal, bridal and baby showers, missions fundraising, mission trips, kitchen ministry, and office support. She also volunteered for many years at Family Building Blocks in Salem. She loved gardening, sewing, garage sales, traveling, and many different types of crafts. Jackie was never idle.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, January 22, 2023 at 4:00 pm at the Salem First Free Methodist Church, 4455 Silverton Rd NE, Salem, OR 97305. In lieu of flowers, donations can made to Free Methodist World Missions at the address above.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hed-fh.com for the Barker family.