Willie R. Barksdale
Willie R. Barksdale, 85, of Ringgold went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at his home.
He was born on Feb. 26, 1939, in Boaz, Al., to the late Robert and Velma Barksdale. Willie graduated from Sardis High School in 1958 where he enjoyed playing basketball. He lived most of his life in the North Georgia area where he was the owner and operator of WBC Construction, Inc. in Ringgold for over 35 years. He studied construction at UTC and Chicago Technical College. He later taught carpentry at Kirkman High School for several years. Willie was a member of the Carpenter’s Local Union 74 and in the 1970s he won the state carpentry competition. He then went to Canada representing the state of Tennessee finishing in the top three in the nation. Willie was a United States Army veteran serving during the Vietnam Era, was a member of the American Legion Post 40 in Ringgold, and he was of the Baptist faith. Willie loved farming throughout the years, and he especially enjoyed working in his vegetable garden. He had a contagious smile and a great sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, James Barksdale and Gene Barksdale; and sister, Ruth Mashburn.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Jo Ann Barksdale; brother, Perry Barksdale of Albertville, Al.; three sisters, Margie Henderson of Fenton, MI, Rachel Rimer of Texas, and Janice Cochran of Albertville, Al.; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews who he loved like his children and grandchildren.
Condolences may be shared with the Barksdale family and live webcasting of the funeral service will be available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 16, at 1 p.m. in the South Crest Chapel with Reverend Jim Bennett officiating.
Interment will follow in the TN-GA Memorial Park with members of the American Legion Post 40 serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.