Joan B Barker

POTOMAC – Joan B. Barker, 79, of Potomac, went home to be with her Lord and loving husband Bill on Sunday, March 24, 2013, surrounded by her family.

She was born on Feb. 27, 1934, in Chicago, Ill., to William and Vera Daley. She grew up in Chicago, facing a great deal of loss, as she lost her brother to an accident, her mother at the age of 8 and her father at the age of 16.

She married Charles (Chuck) Overfield in Chicago where they had their first child, Ken. The couple then relocated to Las Vegas, Nev., where their second child, Leslie, was born. Chuck thought he would strike it rich gold mining, while she took care of the children. Unfortunately, times were not easy and she had to work outside of the home and her first marriage ended in divorce.

While working as a secretary in the city of North Las Vegas, she met her soulmate and best friend, William (Bill) S. Barker. They were married on Aug. 24, 1963. Together, they had a daughter, Carolyn. Joan was now able to remain home and take care of her children, where she was a loving and caring mother. As the children grew, she and Bill opened their home to their daughters' friends. She was the Mom in the neighborhood willing to shuttle the kids, baking bread and providing a safe haven for all.

She taught Sunday school at the First Presbyterian Church, was a leader for Junior Exploration and a camp counselor in Sherwood Forest. She became a member of the Mesquite Club in 1980, where she volunteered, holding different offices and becoming president in 1983/1984. She enjoyed singing in the choir and often took her granddaughter to rehearsal. She loved to host and entertain friends, providing wonderful meals. She had many friends that she cared for deeply.

The couple took great pleasure in traveling, but were especially delighted when able to spend time at their cabin in West Yellowstone. They enjoyed the time shared with family and friends at the cabin, finding Montana beautiful, as well as a reprieve from the desert heat.

In 2001 they relocated to Potomac, to be closer to family. She loved music and to garden and shared both of these interests with her granddaughter Courtney. She was devoted to Courtney, helping with piano lessons, school needs and taking kids to town. She provided loving care to her husband until his passing in 2008. She missed him greatly.

She was patient and kind teaching anyone who knew her the meaning of love. Her support and unconditional love will be missed.

She was predeceased by her parents, William and Vera Daley, and her son, Kenneth Overfield. She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn (Jon) Cruson; granddaughter Courtney Cruson (Brandon); great-granddaughter Elizabeth Ann Cruson-Kleven of Potomac and her nephew, Richard Daley of Atlanta. Services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 1515 W. Charleston, Las Vegas, Nev., April 20, at 10 a.m.

The family would like to thank Aspen Hospice for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to Aspen Hospice, Stevensville, the Missoula Food Bank or CBN Christian Broadcasting Network.

Read Joan Barker's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.