Claudette C Barker

She is preceded by her parents, Henry Caproni, Jr. and Jeanne G. Caproni, husband James W. Branch, and sister Yvonne C. Watts. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, CDR. Richard D. Barker, Jr.; children J. Michael Barker (Sue), Richard D. Barker, III (Barbara), Yvonne G. Barker (Tom); grandchildren Richard D. Barker IV, Brian T. Barker, Claudette P. Bryan, Alexander W. Bryan II, Madeleine E. Barker, J. Michael Barker, Jr.; nieces Valerie E. Watts and Jaja Martin; and nephews Robert Watts and David Watts.

Born in Miami Florida during the Yankee Hurricane of 1935, her life began in motion and never stopped. She grew up in Miami, attended the Cushman School and Miami High School, and was a University of Florida medical technology graduate and loyal Gator. An accomplished equestrienne, state ranked tennis player, runner, hiker, Master SCUBA diver, and nationally ranked agility handler with her dog Chaps, she was at home in almost any environment.

She travelled extensively with her husband Richard; hiking, diving, sailing, and exploring many of the natural wonders of the world. She loved the home she and her husband built in North Carolina. Together they explored all of the many nearby National Park trails, whitewater rafted with family and hosted many gatherings of family and friends. She supported the Jacksonville Symphony, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and several non-profit organizations caring for neglected and abused dogs.

Claudette was very engaged and supportive of her children’s and grandchildren’s athletic and academic pursuits. Known as “Ma Barker” to her children’s friends and team mates, she was always in the stands at sporting events giving out wool caps she had knitted in team colors and cheering everyone on. She passed a bit of her strong drive and spirit to them all and hers was a life well lived.

The family will announce remembrance plans. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Hospice and Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32257 and support.communityhospice.com.

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