William James Barker

William (Bill) James Barker

William (Bill) James Barker passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at his home at the Weatherly Inn in Tacoma, Washington.

Bill was born in Colville, Washington, to Ona and William Barker. The family later relocated to Spokane, Washington, where he grew up and graduated from Rogers High School in 1951. He went on to attend Gonzaga University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor in 1956. He practiced law in private practice before later serving as the City Attorney for Tacoma.

Bill served for more than 30 years in the United States Army Reserve Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG Corps), retiring with the rank of Colonel

Bill married Barbara Lane, and together they raised five children:

• William (Marian)

• Katherine Parr (Randy)

• Bruce (Nancy)

• Vickie Warren (Neil)

• Joan Tidrick (George)

Later in life, Bill married Yvonne (Stalding) Barker, and they shared more than 40 happy years together. Bill and Yvonne enjoyed traveling, gardening, and hosting many gatherings with friends and family at their Tacoma home.

Bill had a lifelong love of the outdoors and enjoyed many hobbies over the years, including sailing, flying his private plane, fishing, and gardening.

He was active in the Elks and Saint Andrews Episcopal Church

Bill is survived by his wife, Yvonne; his five children; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and numerous close friends.

Bill will be remembered for his dedication to family, generosity to people in need, sharp wit, service to his country, and his enjoyment of the outdoors and time spent with friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A service and interment ceremony with military honors will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on April 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM. A reception for family and friends will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of William Barker.