Tony Barker served the community of Hays, North Carolina, as a member of the Mountain View Volunteer Fire Department. Tony, like everyone who is involved in public service, had the desire and motivation to help others. That led him to join the department, which had been a goal that he had in life for several years. Almost a year and a half after joining the fire department Tony was fatally injured while on the scene of a vehicle fire. Tony gave his life doing what he loved and will forever be a hero and role model in the eyes of those that knew him.

Tony was a dedicated family man, firefighter, friend, employee, and coworker. If he wasn’t responding to fire calls he was helping organize and working on fundraisers, either at work or in the community. He was always the one to call if you needed something done, because he proved time and time again that he was dependable and compassionate to others in their times of need. He had many hobbies that put him in contact with people who became lifelong friends. With a smile on his face and sparkle in his eyes at all times, it was hard not to see the warmth and care that Tony was known for.

Tony was born December 14, 1976, in Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Jerry and Judith Barker. He was the second of five children, having three brothers, Rickie, Gary, and Stephan, and one sister, Virginia. In addition to his parents and siblings he is survived by his wife, Beth, and their four-year-old son, Eli. Eli was the light of Tony’s life, and nothing made him prouder than being a dad to a wonderful little boy. He also had nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. Gabby, Erica, Tyler, and Noah all held a special place in Tony’s heart.

Greater love has no one than this, that they lay down their life for another. John 15:13