William Warwick Barker

William “Bill” Barker, 80, of Henrico, Virginia, peacefully passed away on November 4th. Born to Samuel and Luciele Barker, in Richmond, VA, he was a devoted son and brother. He and his family were active members of Westover Hills Methodist Church. From a young age Bill loved to ride his bike and when not in school he spent time with friends. Many of Bill’s fondest memories included his childhood best friend Richard Seal and his college roommate Wayne Burgess, both of these men and their spouses were a part of Bill’s life until the last day.

In 1965, Bill graduated from Lynchburg College with a degree in Economics. He began his career with the Virginia Department of Transportation in 1967 in the District Office in Roanoke, Virginia. He worked in procurement where he was both passionate and committed to his work. He retired from his career after 44 years of service, in 2011 as a Procurement Manager.

In April 1969, Bill married Patricia Ann Epps and went on to have two children, Kimberly and Kathryn Barker. They shared 35 years of marriage together prior to her passing in 2006. In February 2018, he married Christy Rudisill. They built their dream home in Glen Allen, VA, where he happily spent the remainder of his retirement years and where he could frequently be found on the front porch waving at and talking to neighbors. Bill put family first always, and was a dedicated father and husband. Bill had a child-like mischief, was outgoing, cheerful and always hospitable. He loved hosting and attending annual Christmas Eve parties and family gatherings. He spent many nights playing Rummikub, listening to music and going out to dinner with family and friends. He loved the beach and will always be remembered by his grandchildren for the generous, fun and quality time they spent together at annual beach vacations.

Bill is survived by his wife, Christy Rudisill, two daughters Kimberly Rodgers (Nathan) and Kathryn Carson (Andy) and grandchildren, Hayden and MacKenzie Rodgers, and Brady, Kaitlynn and Collins Carson as well as his sister, Mary Ann Ballou and many nieces, nephews and countless other family and dear friends. Bill was preceded in death by his first wife Patricia Epps, (February 3, 2006), and his parents, Samuel Barker (September 6, 2007) and Lucile Barker (November 25, 2008).

Services will be held on Thursday, November 9th at 3 PM in the Chapel of Second Baptist Church, 9614 River Road. Henrico, VA 23229. The family will welcome guests at a reception following the service. Woody Funeral Home is coordinating arrangements. Inquiries can be directed to 804-288-3013.