Nelda Ruth Barker

Nelda Ruth Barker, of St Marys, Ohio fell asleep on February 20, 2025, and is awaiting the return of her lord and savior Jesus Christ. 

Nelda was born to Morris C. Barker and Helen E. (Grant) Barker on October 8, 1946, in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was the youngest of three children. 

She is survived by her brother, James A. Barker of Bloomington, Indiana and nieces and nephews. Nelda was preceded in death by her father and mother Morris and Helen Barker, and her sister Sarah K. Horack.  

Nelda lived with her family in Bloomington, IN through childhood. She contacted polio in 1950, shortly before the Salk vaccine became available, and was hospitalized for months.  A doctor later told her mother that Nelda had the worst case he had ever seen for which the patient survived. To rebuild hand dexterity, Nelda afterwards took up piano and harp.  Graduating from University High School in 1964, she attended Earlham College for two years and then graduated from Ohio University in 1969.

In 1973, Nelda attended her first Bible fellowship with The Way Ministry and took the foundational class on Power for Abundant Living.  This brought her much joy and peace and gave her many answers she had sought.  She entered The Way Corps Christian leadership training program and graduated in 1982. 

Nelda worked on the Staff of The Way International for a total of twenty-seven years, serving in both the Personnel and Word Processing Departments.  She was a dedicated employee who worked with method and detail, always endeavoring to get a job done right the first time. The Way was the linchpin of Nelda’s adult life.

She sang in The Way International Chorus Choir for many years, performing regularly at Sunday services as well as at concerts throughout the year. 

For many years Nelda was a running enthusiast, completing 5K runs multiple times. She also took an interest in learning about the Constitution and godly principles of government. 

Nelda was an avid student of the Bible and loved sharing God’s Word with others, which she was very adept at. 

She was fond of traveling, especially to England, where her niece and nephew live, and where Nelda lived for a time. She was proud to have served in the Word Over the World Ambassador outreach program in England in 1973-1974. She always enjoyed meeting people and making new acquaintances during her travels and then, upon her return, sharing with friends about her adventures.

Nelda enjoyed being self-sufficient, and never troubled others with her own difficulties.  She was a profoundly cheerful and giving person, a delight to be around.

There will be a recognition service for Nelda Barker at the Miller Funeral Home, 1605 Celina Road (Ohio 703 West) St Marys, OH 45885 on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend