Iva Ruth Barker

Iva Ruth Barker, age 88 of Darlington, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 4th, 2025. Iva was born in Ashe County, North Carolina and came with her husband to Harford County for work in 1956 where she made her home until her death. Over the years, she worked at Bata Shoe Company, the U.S. Post Office, Kmart, and Rite Aide. She enjoyed interacting with customers and made many friends processing photos while working at Rite Aide.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Bobby Ray Barker. Also survived by her children, Carolyn Ward (Fred) and Craig Barker (Christine); her grandsons Gavin and Mason Barker; her siblings Madge Sawyer of Warrensville, NC, Kay Bundy of Lansing, NC, and Sandy McNeil of Lansing, NC. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Joe and Elsie Osborne Emerson; Siblings: Junior, Bryan, Jerry, Barbara Jean, Joyce, Shirley, Sue, Carolyn Anne and Billy.

Iva was quiet, a constant of patience and support. She was an excellent seamstress and homemaker who always put her family first. There was nothing she couldn't do. Bobby and Iva enjoyed attending Aberdeen IronBirds’ baseball games and were true fans. She also enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and reading.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at McComas Family Funeral Homes in Bel Air, where a funeral service will follow at 10:30 AM. Interment will take place at Bel Air Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Iva’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.