Norfolk—Pauline R. Barker died peacefully in Boone, N.C. on Jan. 29, 2013 surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the youngest of three children born to parents Mary and Charles Roudman. Pauline grew up in Cleveland. A gifted musician, she played several instruments including piano, cello, violin and mandolin.
After graduating high school, Pauline joined the Women’s Army Air Corps (WWII) and earned the rank of Sergeant. While stationed in Mitchell Field, N. Y., she met Murray G. Barker, a handsome young man from Richmond, Va. While dating, Murray proposed to Pauline several times before she accepted his proposal. They were married on August 19, 1945 in Cleveland. After serving their country, Pauline and Murray moved to Richmond, Va., and in 1952, moved and settled in Norfolk. Pauline worked at the Naval Safety Center, located on the Norfolk Naval Air Station in Norfolk, as a key-punch department supervisor. In 1995, she retired at the age of 75, and for her outstanding service was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award.
She was an avid reader and in her retirement, she volunteered in the Be a Reader program to assist young children with their reading skills.
Pauline is survived by her three daughters, Shelley Tarbutton (Kent) of Boone, N.C., Beverley Dozier of Norfolk, and Joyce Bresloff of Centennial, Col. She is also survived by her grandchildren Chelsea Mathis (John), Lennon Redford, Morgan Tarbutton, Courtney Dozier Weeren (Joe),Travis Dozier, Sean Bresloff, Mandi Autry (Mark) and her two great-grandchildren, Michael and Morgan Autry.
Our mother Pauline supported and loved her family with all her spirit and heart. She always knew when her children or grandchildren needed her help and gave it selflessly. She was very independent and wise, courageous and strong, gracious and accepting, and selflessly loved us all without end. We will miss her kind, patient, gentle spirit and her smiles and words of love.
Pauline was buried next to her beloved husband, Murray, in Forest Lawn Cemetery with Rabbi Micheal Panitz officiating.
Donations in her memory to High Country Hospice or High Country Caregiver Foundation of Boone, N.C. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.