Maxie Earl Barker

Maxie “Max” Earl Barker, age 83, passed peacefully from this life on 24 January 2026 at home in the company of his family. He graduated from Everett High School where he met the love of his life, Ellen, and married her in 1967. Maxie played baseball at Hiwassee College and had a tremendous passion for sports and winning, taking this to the softball fields and playing in the very first Smoky Mountain Classic in 1969 and many to follow. He developed a relentless pursuit of “the swing” (the golf swing) that he spent a lifetime studying, analyzing, and practicing. Along with his buddies, they created a formidable bond in the local golf community and established an unprecedented and often unorthodox level of techniques, opinions and advice on “the swing”. Stories of his golf prowess will surely continue to echo through the clubhouses of local courses for years to come, as he influenced golfers of all ages. He will surely be blessed with the gift of “the swing” upon arrival to Heaven. Hit 'em straight Max.

Maxie is preceded in death by his wonderful wife of 56 years, Frances Ellen Barker and three sisters Bonita, Barbara, and Nancy with his brother Billie Joe Barker passing one week after Max, all of which he loved dearly. He is survived by his daughter, Melissa “Missy” Barker Johnson, son Billy and wife Stacy Barker (who he loved like a daughter), grandchildren Cannon and Carly Johnson, Corum and Dustin Sanford, and great grandchildren Amari and Colter Sanford. Max and Ellen had four siblings each, which tallied a family of nieces and nephews too big to list, but they loved them all. The family would also like to thank all the friends and families who have supported Max and his family throughout their lives.

At Max’s request, there will be no formal services or receiving of friends. In lieu of flowers or food, we ask that you make a donation to Emerald Youth Foundation’s newly established GOLF PROGRAM. This will support the development of underserved youth through the game of golf and bring stability, integrity, confidence, and love of the game to the next generation. Go to: https://emeraldyouth.org/memorial-max-barker to donate in the Memory of Max.