Ronald Jay Barker

Ronald J. Barker, 51, of Christiansburg passed away March 25, 2018. He was preceded in death by his father, Carlton Ernest Barker and niece, Laura Elizabeth Barker. Ronald is survived by his sons, Matthew Barker, and special friend Amber & Travis Barker; mother, Vera Darlene Barker Francisco; step-father David Lee Francisco, Sr. 'Pop'; mother of his children, Shanan Sweeney; sister, Linda Grubb Snider and fiance’, Tim Wilson; brothers, Jerry Barker and wife, Freda; Darryl Barker and wife, Joanie; Steve Barker and wife, Susan. Kenneth Francisco and wife Crystal. Step-brothers Glenn Francisco and wife Patty, Tim Francisco and wife Gail, David Lee “Davey” Francisco, Jr.; Step-sisters Kathy Hall; Pam Lloyd, Amy Hale and husband Mitch; Numerous nieces and nephews; Many other family members, friends, and his beloved dog Razor.

Ronnie was born in Christiansburg, Virginia, was raised in the Walton Road Community of Montgomery County, and was a graduate of Auburn High School.

Ronnie spent a large part of his employment career working for the Virginia Department of Transportation. He had many friends there and was affectionately known as Skippy. After leaving there he worked as a self-employed painting and home improvement contractor.

Ronnie enjoyed shooting pool, loved NASCAR, and was a devoted Dale Earnhardt fan. Ronnie could be found on many summer nights at the Motor Mile Speedway supporting and cheering on car #24, driven by his favorite race car driver, his son, Matthew. Likewise, he loved hearing his son Travis play the guitar and supported him in his music endeavors. Ronnie was also a scout leader and followed his boys from Cub Scouts to becoming Eagle Scouts.

Ronnie loved his family and had a special place in his heart for his uncle, Ted “Drexel” Lyons. He had many lifelong friends as well as many new friends because he never met a stranger. Ronnie had a great sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. He believed in helping others and would “give you the shirt of his back”. Ronnie loved dogs and treated his pit bull, Razor, like a member of the family.

Ronnie’s boys were his pride and joy and his earthly absence will cause a void in their lives. He will be missed by all of those who knew and loved him. However, we can all take comfort in the fact that he has gone to Heaven and we will be reunited with him again someday.

Visitation will be Friday, March 30, 2018, from 1-2 p.m. at Horne Funeral Home, with the Funeral Service to follow at 2 p.m. in the Chapel. Pastor Matt King and Rev. Mike Talbert Jr. will officiate the service. Interment will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Christiansburg.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations be made to help with the burial expenses. Donations can be made directly to the funeral home or a Go Fund Me Account has been set up on Facebook.