John Barger

John Barger
John Joseph Barger, aged 94, passed away peacefully on April 10th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 11th, 1929, in Lexington, North Carolina, Joe was a figure of integrity, wisdom, and kindness throughout his long and illustrious life. Joe was educated at Mount Ulla Schooling System in North Carolina, followed by studies at N.C. State University, Southern Polytechnic Institute of Technology and Engineering in Georgia, and the University of Chattanooga. Across his studies he earned a bachelor’s degree in both Engineering and Physics. Joe served his country with honor as a member of the Army Security Agency during the Korean War based in the Philippines, an experience that shaped much of his world view and principles. After his military service, he embarked on a journey of public service which began with eight years on the Ringgold City Council. Following this position Joe served as the Mayor of Ringgold, Georgia for forty-years. A role he embraced with such steadfast dedication to improving the lives of the people in his town that he loved that it earned him a place in the GMA Hall of Fame. A globetrotter at heart, Joe traveled the world pursuing a career in engineering, earning countless domestic and international patents. Joe advanced various industries and several countries nuclear power infrastructures. His yearning for knowledge sparked an immense love for culture, science, and history which he eagerly shared with his family and all that would listen. Joe was profoundly committed to various charitable causes, consistently driven by a belief in contributing to the community that had stood by him during his years of public service. He was particularly passionate about his work with the Catoosa County Veterans Memorial Flag Project, an organization dedicated to honoring deceased veterans bi-annually, a testament to his enduring respect and support for those who served their country.
He was preceded in death by his parents Sarah and James Riley Barger, Sisters; Essie Young, Callie Kluttz, Geneva Bell, Myrtle Briggs, Gurla Watson, Thelma (Peg) Koontz, and Lizzie (Toots) Wagner. Brothers; Marvin, Buck, Jake, and Tom. Son-in-law Tim Campbell.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Barbara Ann Smith Barger. He is also survived by one sister Georgia Harris and one sister-in-law Edith Barger. Daughter Sandra Campbell and son James Curtis (and daughter-in-law Dana). Grandchildren; Grant (and Alison) Barger, Christina (and Carter) McKinnon, Triston Campbell, and Mikala Campbell. Great-grandchild Sterling James McKinnon.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and from 10:00 a.m. until 12:30m p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Ringgold United Methodist Church, where Joe was a member for over 60 years. Burial will follow at Anderson Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Catoosa County Veterans Memorial Flag Fund, in care of Ringgold City Hall located at: 150 Tennessee Street, Ringgold GA 30736, as this was an organization close to Joe’s heart. Joe’s legacy is not just in the roads paved or parks opened but, in the warmth, and love he spread, his unyielding support for his family, and the standards of excellence he set in public office. Beyond his public persona, Joe was known for his sharp wit, boundless generosity, and an unshakeable moral compass. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Online guest book at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Homes Wallis – Stewart Chapel, Ringgold, Georgia.