Annetta Sue Barker

Annetta Sue Barker, affectionately known to those who loved her simply as Sue, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio. Born Annetta Sue Miller on August 21, 1941, in Sandy Hook, Kentucky, Sue’s life was a tapestry woven with love, devotion, and vibrant spirit.

Raised in Chicago, Illinois from 1943 to 1965, Sue grew through Chicago City Schools, met and married her husband, Billy Barker, had her two oldest children, before making the decision to move to Dayton, Ohio, where she had her third and youngest child. This is where she established her deep roots that she came to cherish so much. Her early career unfolded at Motorola, where she dedicated two years to crafting radios for the Army, contributing quietly yet significantly to the nation’s efforts. Yet, it was perhaps her transition to embracing the role of "the best housewife" that truly showcased her boundless love and commitment. Sue took immense pride in keeping her home impeccably organized and tidy — a sanctuary of warmth, comfort, and affection for all who entered.

Sue’s heart was as expansive as her laughter was infectious. Fun-loving and endlessly affectionate, she never refused a hug or a kiss, spreading kindness with every encounter. Her devotion as a wife, mother, and grandmother was unmatched, a profound testament to a marriage that spanned 66 wonderful years alongside her beloved husband, Billy Barker. Their journey together began with a first date at a Cubs game—a fitting start for a lifetime fan of the Chicago Cubs, whose love of the team mirrored her passion for life. Her strength was made evident by surviving breast cancer twice.

Beyond family, Sue cherished the company of her nieces and nephews, and nurtured friendships that enriched her days. An avid enthusiast of the outdoors, she found joy and peace in traveling, camping, hiking, and gardening—activities that allowed her to embrace nature’s beauty fully. Cooking was another of her treasured joys, filling her home with comforting aromas and the promise of shared meals.

Sue is survived by her devoted husband, Billy Barker, whom she married in Chicago on October 24, 1959; her son, Ron Barker, and his wife Julie; her daughter, Paula Smith, and her husband Roger; and a proud line of grandchildren—William Barker, Meagan George and her husband Kyle, Timothy Barker and his wife Kitty, Scott “Scotty” Barker and his wife Caris, Ricky Smith, Naomi Barker, Cody Gregory, and Roger Jackson. The family circle extends further with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and close friends who will forever hold her memory dear.

Her passing leaves a void deepened by the loss of her daughter, Barbara Lee Barker; her sister, Jeanette Petansky; and her parents, Pauline and Addie Miller, who preceded her in death.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, Ohio 45424, where the funeral service will begin at 2:00. She will be laid to rest in Elliott County Memory Gardens, Sandy Hook, Kentucky.

Sue’s legacy is one defined by unwavering love, a joyous heart, and the tender beauty she found in everyday moments. As family and friends come together to remember her, they carry forward the warmth of her hugs, the spark of her humor, and the deep-rooted love that made her home a place of belonging. In celebrating Annetta Sue Barker, we honor a woman whose spirit touched many and whose memory will remain forever vibrant in the hearts of those she loved so dearly.

To share a memory of Sue, or to leave a special message for her family, please sign the online guestbook provided.