Paula Barker

Paula Barker, 85, of Hot Springs, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 24th, 2016. Paula was born Aug. 21st, 1931 in Chicago, IL to Frank Cressler and Rose Gerri. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Tommy O. Barker and her brothers Frank, Bill and Eddie Cressler. Paula met her husband Tommy Barker in 1953 where they both worked as Radiologic Technologists at Vincent’s hospital in Chicago, IL. They married shortly thereafter at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, and later moved to Hot Springs, AR. There they continued their lives together and raised their family. Paula was a devoted Christian and mother of five children while working full time in the medical profession until her retirement in 2001. She was well loved and respected within the community. Paula was a life-long and avid reader, enjoyed watching old movies, and most relished spending quality time with her large family. Being that she was a loving and caring individual, Paula saw only the best in each and every person she met. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Catholic Church. Survivors include one son, Thomas Steven Barker of Hot Springs; four daughters, Donna Kimmerly and husband Tom both of Hot Springs, Tina Chriss and husband Brian both of Missouri, Alecia Lyford of Hot Springs and Andrea Meyer of Benton; grandchildren, Stephenie Freer, Renee Fechuch, Cody Scheff, Brittany Kramer, Skyler Kimmerly, Emily Meyer and Michael Lyford; great grandchildren, Harlan Jones, Abigayle Jones, Neelah Agus, Madison Fechuch and Billy Kramer; and many close friends. A Rosary will be 6:00 PM Friday August 26th with visitation to follow until 8:00 PM at Hot Springs Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday August 27th at St. John’s Catholic Church with Father James West officiating. Burial will follow at Hollywood Cemetery. Pallbearers are Daren Lyford, Mitch Morris, Billy Kramer and Mark Freer. Honorary pallbearers are sister-in-law Esther Muncrief , Susan Barker and Dr. David Rogers. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Arkansas Hospice and to the staff of Lakewood Healthcare for their excellent care.

Paula Barker

August 21, 1931 - August 24, 2016