Cecil Lawrence Barker

Cecil (Junior) Lawrence Barker, age 62, a resident of Philippi, died March 22, 2023, due to a coal mining accident. Junior was born on October 6, 1960, in San Francisco, CA, to Gisela and Cecil Barker (deceased). He was united in marriage on October 5, 1980 to Mary Darlene (Weese) who survives at home. Surviving are sons Steven L. Barker and wife Amanda, and Nathan W. Barker, all of Philippi, and two grandchildren, Stefanie, and Noah. He also has 3 sisters and 3 brothers, one deceased. He graduated from high School while living in Virginia, class of 1978. For many years he held the position of County Surveyor and Mapper until he went to work in the coal mines as a bolter and surveyor. He spent over 18 years working for different coal companies, Sago, Arch, Mettiki and Allegheny Metallurgical. Besides his family and spending time with his grandkids many people were special to Junior, especially Cathy Newman, his sister-in-law. Also, John and Mary ”Mack” Mosesso, Joe and Georgia Beymer and a surveying mentor, Rev. Jim Fogg. Junior loved the outdoors and outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing and especially camping at Teter Lake. He collected mining stickers and enjoyed listening to music by the legendary Elvis Presley. Friends will be received at the Wright Funeral Home and onsite Crematory, 220 N. Walnut St., Philippi, on Sunday, March 26, from 1 – 8 p.m. and on Monday, March 27, from 8 a.m. to 1 p. m. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 pm, with Chaplain Bob Wilkins officiating. Interment will follow in the Tacy Crossroads Cemetery.