Jesse Theron Barker

Jesse T. Barker
Capt. USN, Ret.
Feb 1, 1916- Feb 1, 2008
Former Resident of Cache Valley
Jesse Theron Barker, known by his family as Theron, was an extraordinary individual who saw many changes and opportunities during his long life of service to his country and fellow man. He was the eldest of five children born to Jesse Benson and Archa Cannon Barker in Newton, Utah. Sisters Beatrice and Zilpha, and brothers Quentin and Keith completed the family.
Life on the farm taught him many valuable lessons and instilled in him a love of family, a strong work ethic and respect for the hard-earned dollar. He attended North Cache High School in Richmond graduating in 1934. A member of the debate team, he also ran track and played football and was a trumpet player and drum major in the school band. He spent one year in the Army Air Corps and two years at Utah State University. While working his way through school, he earned his Civilian Pilots license, thus attaining his childhood dream. In 1941 he was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. A highly-decorated veteran, he saw extensive action in WWII as a dive bomber and fighter pilot, as well as in the Korean conflict. For his wartime service, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with Star, Air Medal with 7 Stars and Presidential Unit Citation with 3 stars. He was most proud of the peacetime Meritorious Service Medal earned for his many contributions and achievements during his 33-year Naval career. During his career, he flew 117 different types of aircraft. His contributions in both war and peace earned him a level of achievement matched by few.
Theron gladly accepted many LDS Church callings and served actively, including a calling as first counselor. He put to use his mechanic skills repairing and rebuilding vehicles for many church members and friends. He enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to serve others and worked in the church until his health declined in 2006.
Theron was preceded in death by his parents, brother Keith Barker, and his wife of 59 years Betty Lee Perry. Theron passed away on his 92nd birthday with the knowledge he was dearly loved. He is survived by daughters Barbara Albert, Betty Bancalari and Beverly Barker; sister Beatrice Nyman and brother Quentin Barker of Logan; sister Zilpha Bird of Idaho; and sister-in-law Totsie Barker of Newton. His entire family and dear friends will cherish his memory and miss him greatly.
Visitation is planned for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, at Allen-Hall Mortuary, followed by a graveside dedication at Logan City Cemetery at 12:00 PM.