KINSTON | Walter Christopher Barker, 73, of Kinston passed away on Monday, December 21, 2015, at his home. Along with his family's encouragement and support, he fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. Walter was born on February 21, 1942, in Craven County, the youngest son of William Washington Barker Jr. and Caroline Fuller Barker. Walter graduated from Grainger High School and attended North Carolina State University where he became an avid Wolfpack fan. He served his country during the Vietnam Conflict and had duties at bases in Mississippi, California, and DaNang, Vietnam. Following his discharge from the Navy Seabees, he worked in various local businesses; and in 1985, established his own business as a distributor of outdoor power products for the southeastern United States. As a young adult, Walter was actively involved with the youth of Lenoir County, having served with the Caswell District Scouting Program; Cubmaster and Scoutmaster of Pack 392, sponsored by Westminster United Methodist Church. He was able to guide many young boys, including both of his sons, to achieve the distinction of becoming Eagle Scouts. For many years, Walter was a volunteer with the Kinston-Lenoir County Recreation Department, where he coached youth baseball and basketball. By nature, Walter was a farmer. He had a great love and respect for the land and its preservation. He found great joy in planting and nurturing seeds, plants, and flowers; harvesting the fruits of his labor; and sharing with others. From the first signs of spring until the cool days of fall, he could be seen on his faithful tractor plowing the fields. But, Walter is best known for his leadership roles as a member of Westminster United Methodist Church, his favorite role being that of a church usher. Nothing pleased him more than being able to greet and assist newcomers, old timers, youth, women, and men to his place of worship - Westminster United Methodist Church. He lived his life to the fullest and reminded everyone that life is "fantastic." Walter, being a devoted family man, loved his family and cherished being PaPa to his three grandchildren, Caroline, Harris and Hudson. His dog Ollie was his constant companion and brought him great joy, comfort, and peace. Walter is survived by his wife of 51 years, Faye DeBruhl Barker, of the home; sons, William Walter Barker and Robert Christopher Barker and wife Kathryn, all of Kinston; grandchildren, Caroline Denise Barker, William Harris Barker, and Hudson Christopher Barker; sister-in-law Anne Barker; sister-in-law Becky Outlaw and husband Cecil; brother-in-law William DeBruhl and special friend Ann Laws; Ronald Smith and wife Phyllis; and several nieces and nephews. Walter was preceded in death by his parents, William Washington and Caroline Fuller Barker; and brother, William Washington Barker III. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to family and friends who have provided love and support during Walter's illness. They also extend their gratitude to Dr. Peter Watson, Gretchen Vick, and the staff of Kinston Medical Specialists; to Dr. Ralph Lee Cox, Dr. Richard Hughes, and staff of Lenoir Urology for their comfort in times of need, and to the staff of 3HC who provided comfort and support. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 26, 2015, at Westminster United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held following the visitation with Pastor Haywood Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Walter's memory may be made to Westminster United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1007, Kinston, NC 28503. On-line condolences may be sent to howardandcarter.com. Howard-Carter Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Sign the guest book at Kinston.com