Whitney "Whit" Randolph Barker passed away suddenly Saturday April 27, 2024 while working at Waynesboro Water Treatment Plant.

He was born to the late Randolph Rhodes and the late Donna Agnor Ham Barker on June 23, 1969.

Whit graduated from Waynesboro High School, where he was an excellent baseball player on teams that won district and regional titles and made it to the state tournament.  After high school, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from East Tennessee State.  Whit was a devoted husband and father and especially loved spending time with his boy, whether on the baseball diamond or working together on a soapbox derby car.  He enjoyed watching baseball, be it T-ball, travel, or college ball, especially if Jake was playing.  He was also a beloved and well-respected youth coach in multiple sports. He knew baseball and basketball well and knew how to teach it to young people in a kind and patient manner.  He was a proud Waynesboro resident and volunteered for a number of local organizations during his lifetime.  He loved hiking and was a member of the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club, helping to maintain 33 miles of trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Whit was a true and loyal friend, always quick with a laugh or to lend a helping hand.  He was both fun and funny.  He was also well-read, intellectually curious, and encyclopedic in his knowledge of music, classic comedy albums, and a host of other things.  His outgoing, generous, and compassionate spirit will be sorely missed by his friends and family.  He was truly one of a kind.

Surviving family includes his wife Peige Owens Barker and son Jacob "Jake" Barker; sister, Dr. Stephanie Barker of San Antonio, Texas; and step-brothers Neil and Joey Truxell.

All services will be private.

Condolences to the family can be made at mcdowfuneralhomeinc.com.