Celebrating the Life of
Mary Barker
September 12, 1965 — December 4, 2024
Obituary
Mary Melissa Barker known as Missy and Melmo, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024 in Joplin, Missouri at the age of 59. Born on September 12, 1965 Mary was a beacon of humor and known for her sharp wit and infectious sarcasm that could lighten a room.
Mary, ex-wife to Michael Barker and mom to her two sons Jon and Jared. Her youngest son Jared married Tabitha and blessed Mary with two grandchildren Addison and Moses, who were the light of her life. Known as Melmo to her grandkids, always ready with cake pops, toys, and endless love.
She was a pillar of support, always putting her loved ones needs first.
December of 2022 she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Uveal Melanoma (not curable and terminal). Despite the prognosis, she remained a warrior, courageous and resilient. Her son, Jared, was by her side offering her comfort and love in her final moments when she joined our Lord and Savior in Heaven. Mary chose to dedicate her body to science, in hopes they will find a cure for this horrible disease.
Mary was preceded in death by her parent, Mary and James Mathis and her grandson, Jesse. Her legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering strength will continue to inspire all her knew her.
Mary Melissa Barker will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of the Lord.
Memories and Condolences
Please share a photo or video, or post a heartfelt condolence to the family.
Missy was a close friend of mine in Junior high. She was always kind and carried herself gracefully. I was impressed by her wit and ability to do roller dance at such a high level. I always think highly of her and hope her family knows how much she meant to many people, just like me.
I had the great pleasure of having Melissa to be a caregiver to the elderly she was so loving to all her residents always going the extra mile we became great friends saw Melissa through her first sugrey which she came through has a real trooper. Jared and Tabatha were always by her side doing what they do best. She moved away with her family , but she never was forgotten I am truly blessed to have work with and know God has taken his great angel home. Prayers to her family until we meet again!!
Missy was my first friend and companion when I moved to Texas in 1979. She was a bright spot in my life and a fierce defender against those who made fun of me. She gave me confidence and love when I was at my loneliest place. I will always remember walking to and from school, laughing and enjoying one another's company. A sweet angel,.gone too soon. My deepest condolences to her family. May Jesus wrap you in His arms of love. Denise Rosario Tillinghast
My heart is broken to hear of Missy's passing. She was one of my best friends in middle and high school. Wow what memories. We were part of a Fine Arts group growing up. Performed in many voice recitals together. Spent six years doing face painting at the Octoberfest in Fort Worth. What great memories. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Missy, as we knew her (me and my sister Sue Miller) was born when I was thirteen years old. She was our baby. As teenagers we played with her and watched her sparkle as an only child. She got her name from a girl our cousin , Hugh Richard Massey, dated that was named Missy. Aunt Mary loved that named. When Aunt Mary was pregnant with Missy, Sister and I would wax her floors on our hands and knees, but we never complained as we were getting a baby to play with. We just lived 10 miles away and we were either at her house or her and Aunt Mary were at our house. We would go and watch her roller skate in competitions at Will Rogers Coliseum. She was very good. We watched her go through school and watched her graduate from LD Bell High School where both of her sons went also. After marrying she moved away and we saw them less. Johnna Cox, Sue Miller and myself, all 1st cousins, were able to take her with us to a AB&B in Joplin two weeks before she passed. It was such a blessing as we all stayed in our pajamas and watched movies and she drank Cherry Coke, which she enjoyed. This was a gift from God that we got that time with her and got to love on her. Needless to say we had some talks and good laughs. Missy was a remarkable woman and will be missed. I will always love and remember her. ❤️ Earleen Isbell
Im so sorry for your loss she was such a warrior she will be missed by many I know the support group will not be the same without her she kept us all laughing rest is peace my sweet friend love and miss you 🥰 sending prayers 🙏❤️