Obituary of Darell Keith Barker

Darell Keith Barker, 72, of Kingsport went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Keith was born on August 18, 1951 to the late Thurman K. and Nita L. Barker. He started serving the Lord at 10 years old and began singing and playing the piano in church at 11 years old. Keith became an assistant pastor in his 20’s and went on to pastor for 40 years, 21 of which were at Bethel Apostolic Church in York, PA and 19 years at Christian Life Center of the Tri-Cities where he retired from in 2019. During his time as a minister he served on the UPCI Pennsylvania Board as the Youth President, Presbyter, and District Superintendent. During those 40 years he impacted many people and with God’s help changed many lives for the better. Keith served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1969 to 1975. He was a gentle man and became a father figure to many. Keith loved to tease his family and friends and was known to be a story teller which would bring much laughter to those around him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched until eternity.  

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Wilma Jean Benton and a beloved son-in-law, Donald R. Terry. 

Survivors include his loving wife and soulmate who he married on April 22, 1972, Kathy Gray Barker; daughters, Stephanie M. Evans and husband Paul E., and Suzanne N. Eaves and husband Ronnie J.; grandchildren, Justin M. Terry and wife Rachel, Courtney F. Terry, Ashtyn N. Eaves, Braxton K. Eaves, and Kynzlee G. Eaves; brother-in-law, Jackie Benton; niece, Cyndi Hunt and husband David; nephew, Jonathan Benton and wife Jessica; along with a host of friends and extended family.  

The family will receive friends from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at Christian Life Center. A funeral service will follow with Bro. Paul Evans, Bro. Ronnie Eaves, Bro. Randall McCoy, and Bro. Jeremy Damesworth officiating.  

A military graveside service will be conducted at 3 pm on Monday, November 20, 2023 at Holston View Cemetery with honors conducted by the American Legion Hammond Post #3/265. Pallbearers will be Doug Boggs, Jeremy Branham, Willie Bowman, Justin Terry, Braxton Eaves, and James Armstrong. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 2:50pm.  

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Barker family.