A native of “old South Fort Smith”, he was born to Al and Esther Dooley Barling on September 30, 1928. He attended primary and secondary schools in Fort Smith, graduating from Fort Smith High School in 1948. He attended Hendrix College and College of Ozarks earning a Bachelor’s degree in 1955. While at Hendrix, he accepted a call to ministry in the United Methodist Church and was “licensed to preach” in 1949 and accepted his first appointment in Branch, AR. He entered Perkins Seminary of Southern Methodist University and earned his Bachelor’s of Divinity in 1959. He faithfully served 17 churches in Arkansas and Texas over his 47 years of ministry. The last six years of his ministry were served as District Superintendent of the Fayetteville District of the North Arkansas Conference. He was predeceased by his parents.
Survivors include his wife, the “love of his life”, Nell Bruner Barling. They would have celebrated 75 years of marriage two days after his passing. Additional survivors include his children, Phillip Barling (Louise), Glen Mark Barling (Sheri), and Paul Barling (Kimiko); grandchildren include Candace York (Clay), Aaron A. Barling, Ben Barling (Sarah), Andrew Barling, Hannah Barling, Jason Barling (Trisha), Nathan Barling (Jennifer), Kari Voss (Justin), Cooper Barling (Mollie), Jerin Barling (Ridge), Joshua Barling (Amanda), David Barling and Michael Barling. Aaron was pleased to talk about his 19 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Etta Jensen (George), and his brother, William Barling.
He so loved his biological family, as well as, his many church families that he enjoyed over his life. He will be missed by many and he will occupy a space in our hearts always. The family is grateful for his church family for the love and support they have shown during his life. Special thanks goes to Home Instead caregiver, Helen Grigson for her dedication and caring for both Aaron and Nell over the past years. She has become “one of the family” and has meant so much to all of us. Also, the family wishes to thank the staff of Fianna Hills Nursing Home for their dedication, patience, and compassion for Aaron and Nell these past few months.
Visitation will be Friday, July 26, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM at Edwards Funeral Home.
Funeral Service will be 1:00 PM Saturday in Roebuck Chapel at First United Methodist Church with burial to follow at Oak Cemetery.
Memorials may be sent to: First United Methodist Church, 200 North 15th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901.
Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com
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