Willie Albert Barkley

Sylacauga, Alabama - Mr. Willie Albert Barkley began his earthly journey on October 13, 1935, in Talladega County, Alabama, born to the late Willie Palmer Barkley, Sr. and the late Ruthie Mae Davis Welch. After ninety years of life, love, and legacy, he peacefully gained his heavenly wings on February 28, 2026, at his residence in Sylacauga, Alabama.

At a very young age, Willie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and united with Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Kendall Burton. His faith was steadfast and unwavering throughout his life. He remained a devoted and faithful member, serving the Lord with quiet strength and commitment until the very end.

Willie received his education at East Highland School in Sylacauga, Alabama. He later began a long and dedicated career with E.C.C., widely known as Gantt’s Quarry, where he faithfully worked for fifty years before retiring. His work ethic, perseverance, and loyalty were admired by many.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Betty Jean Isome Barkley, and to this union he became the loving father of five beautiful children. After she preceded him in death and gained her wings, he later united in Holy Matrimony to Elizabeth A. Green Barkley. Through this union, he lovingly embraced and became a devoted father to her four beautiful children, blending their family with love and care.

In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his sons, Gregory Barkley and Julius Isome; his brothers, Robert Gunn and Donnie Gunn; and his granddaughter, Jamee Wright.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his loving wife, Elizabeth Barkley of Sylacauga, Alabama; daughters, Machelle Isome of Childersburg, Alabama, Melissa (Dexter) Youngblood of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Angelia Borden of Sylacauga, Alabama, and Amy (Terry) Murray of Goodwater, Alabama; sons, Kerry (Susan) Barkley of Sylacauga, Alabama, Todd (Shawntelle) Green of Birmingham, Alabama, and Keith Green of Sylacauga, Alabama.

He is also survived by his sisters: Flora Nell Averette of Bristol, Connecticut; Silverene Fuller of Cleveland, Ohio; Della (Elisha) Jones of Alpine, Alabama; Ernestine (Reverend Willie) Smoot of Alpine, Alabama; Dorothy B. Truss of Talladega, Alabama; and Cynthia Barclay of Gadsden, Alabama. His brothers include Lee Howard Davis of Bristol, Connecticut; Joe Nathan (Shirley) Hickey of Bristol, Connecticut; Willie Palmer, Jr. (Leola) Barclay of Alpine, Alabama; Samuel (Bessie) Barclay of Alpine, Alabama; Wallace (Margaret) Barclay of Alpine, Alabama; Oscar (Paulette) Barclay of Alpine, Alabama; and Arthur (Ann) Barclay of Talladega, Alabama.

He further leaves a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, a devoted special friend, Dexter Pope, along with many other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his love, wisdom, and gentle spirit.

Mr. Willie Albert Barkley’s life was a testament to faith, family, and faithfulness. His legacy of hard work, devotion, and unwavering love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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The Celebration of Life service for Mr. Willie Albert Barkley will be available via livestream for those unable to attend in person. Your presence, whether in person or in spirit, is deeply appreciated by the family during this time of remembrance. To access the livestream please click Celebration of Life for Mr. Willie Albert Barkley

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