Born March 2, 1938, in Natural Bridge, he was a son of the late Jesse Woodrow Barger and Fannie Pearl Harris Barger.

John was a graduate of Natural Bridge High School, class of 1957, then received a scholarship to play football at University of Virginia, where he played football and baseball and later graduated in 1961. He later had a long career in sales with Xerox Corporation.

John had many interests and accomplishments throughout his life, including being an all-star in high school football, playing softball and golf, and horseback riding. He was a Virginia High School League official, a starter at Birdwood Golf Course and a longtime member and student of the Word of God at Berachah Church in Houston, Texas.

His huge smile and welcoming spirit was a light to everyone. His friends and neighbors have been uplifted by his positive attitude.

Surviving are his wife; Martha Ray Barger; daughters Kimberley Barger Tuggle and Karen Kendall Stallings, both of Asheville, N.C.; siblings Jake Barger (Judy) of Bedford, Jane Brookman of Charlottesville, Joe Barger (Linda) of Buena Vista and Jerry Barger (Sarah) of Dayton; a special friend, Sue Ware of Asheville, N.C.; brotherin- law Tom Ray of Houston, Texas; grandson Chandler John-Michael Stallings (Heather); and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was conducted Tuesday, June 11, at High Bridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to Berachah Church, (713) 622-6922.

Arrangements were by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.

NG