Joan Barker

Joan Paula Barker, aged 73, was born in Concord, Massachusetts on May 18, 1948 and died in Charlotte, North Carolina on December 6, 2021. Joan lived and died with the belief that the best way to be is to "play the hand you're dealt." She was a daughter of Richard H. and Mary B. Barker. She was also preceded in death by her brother Robert F. Barker. Joan graduated from Our Lady of Mercy and UNCC. She had a career in banking and accounting. Her happiest years of employment were the last fifteen at Health Management Group. She is survived by her siblings, Ruth Wood of Charlotte (Evan), Marylu Barker of Charlottesville and Richard B. "Butch" Barker of Denver, NC. She leaves behind her nephews Matthew T. Barnes (Jennifer), Ben N. Barnes, Brian F. Barker, Luke W. Barker, a niece Julia B. McDaniel (Jonathan) and an extended loving family. Joan loved her time with her water aerobics class at the Park Road YWCA. She and her "water" friends enjoyed the challenging workout and true friendships. They shared a commitment to social justice by supporting other programs of the Y. Memorial gifts may be made in her name to YCWA Central Carolinas, 3420 Park Road, Charlotte, NC, 28209, to support the Grounds for Change campaign to build 104 units of affordable housing on the YWCA property. Joan was generous. She was loyal. She did not judge other people. She said they were doing their best. Joan will always be an inspiring influence in the lives of those who loved her. We will celebrate Joan's life at a gathering after the first of the year.