Irene Barker

Irene Barker, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on January 12, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born on October 9, 1944, in West Virginia. Irene will be remembered for her kind nature, big heart, and her ability to make people feel at ease. Her loving personality touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Irene dedicated her life to raising and caring for her family. Her career was centered around creating a warm and nurturing home environment for her loved ones. This selfless devotion to her family was one of Irene's proudest accomplishments. She found immense joy in witnessing the growth and success of her children and grandchildren.

Education played a significant role in Irene's life as well. Though she attended high school, her true education came from the experience's life had to offer. Irene possessed an innate wisdom that only comes with living a life full of love and compassion. That Love story began when she met her husband Marvin Barker and they began their lives together on August 11, 1967, and from this union they raised 3 amazing children Shannon, Jamie, and James (Jimmy).

In her free time, Irene enjoyed several hobbies and interests, her favorite was her avid collection of lighthouses. She loved playing cards and watching movies with family and friends. A collector at heart, Irene cherished her collection of Elvis memorabilia and items from the beloved television show "Golden Girls." Singing karaoke brought out the joyous spirit within her, always captivating those around her with her beautiful voice. Additionally, she found solace in listening to music and coloring in her coloring books, often collecting socks, blankets, and jackets as a testament to her giving nature.

Irene is preceded in death by her parents George Spears and Tina Spears, her beloved husband Marvin Barker, and her loving son Jimmy Barker. Irene is survived by her loving family who adored her deeply. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those closest to her. Left behind are Shannon Free (Melvin), and Jaime Burnett (John), daughters who were blessed to have such an incredible mother. Also grieving are fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren who were fortunate enough to experience the boundless love Irene had to offer.

During this difficult time of mourning, friends and family are invited to celebrate the life of Irene Barker at the visitation service on January 23, 2024. The visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Johnson County Funeral Chapel, located at 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS, 66210. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the same location. Irene's final resting place will be in Johnson County Memorial Gardens in Overland Park, KS. The burial ceremony will commence at 3:00 PM.

Irene's passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her legacy of love and kindness will forever endure. Her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Irene Barker was a shining example of unconditional love and compassion, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of being a part of her life and calling her mommol.