Lou Ann Barker

Lou Ann Barker, of Myrtle Beach, born on September 1, 1944, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, passed peacefully into her eternal home on June 28, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Lou Ann was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters and sons-in-law, Kim Taylor (Clay) of Hickory, NC, and Debbie Conner (Tracy) of Myrtle Beach, SC; her grandchildren Abigail Taylor, Kayla Lyons (Andrew), and Noah Taylor (Elizabeth); and her great-grandchildren Bellen Taylor, Lorraine Lyons, and Jason Lyons. She is also survived by her brother, Bill Richard (Kathy) of Clear Lake, TX, along with many beloved nieces, cousins, and extended family.
Her devoted husband, John Barker, and her parents, Louie Gene and Myrtle Richard of La Porte, TX, preceded her in death. Lou Ann spent her early years in Oklahoma and Richland, TX. She attended Oklahoma Baptist University and earned her Bachelor of Arts from Lenoir-Rhyne University and a Master of Education from UNC Charlotte. She dedicated her professional life to nurturing young minds as an elementary school teacher in Lincolnton, NC, then Asheville, NC, before retiring. She was very involved in Kappa Kappa Iota National Teacher’s Professional Organization as a member of the Kappa Chapter of RHO State in support of the professional development of teachers.
In retirement, Lou Ann continued to serve others with grace and compassion. She volunteered for 18 years with Hospice in Clermont, FL, and was an active member and leader in her faith communities.
She served faithfully at First Baptist Church of Clermont, and later at First Methodist Church of Myrtle Beach, where she led the Tennessee Collier Circle, participated in the Brittain Fellowship, the choir, and was affectionately known as a “Magnolia Girl.”
Lou Ann’s life was a radiant reflection of her faith. She shared God’s light, joy, and love with everyone she encountered, leaving a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion.
The family is thankful for the support received from caregivers, medical personnel, church family, friends, and family as this journey has been long and challenging.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 3:00 PM at First Methodist Church, Myrtle Beach. The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:00 PM at the church prior to the service.
Memorials can be made to First Methodist Church of Myrtle Beach 901 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.

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