Thurman L. Barker

Thurman L. Barker, 86, of Fairland, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at his home.

He was born on December 31, 1939, in Greensburg, the son of Charles Ernest Barker and Dorthy Lucille (Hummell) Carter. On December 18, 1976, he married Rebecca Butrum, and she preceded him in death on December 17, 2022.

Thurman is survived by his daughter, Penny Renee Buckalew and husband, Michael, of Pennsylvania; brother, Charlie Barker, of Lafayette; and sister, Bonnie Helms of Clearmont, Florida; grandchildren, Mary Beard, Pennie Rawley, Jessi Blankenship, LeAnna Orr, Devin Buckalew and Dillon Buckalew; great-grandchildren, Jayden, Kayla, Jaxon, Alesia, Rebekah, Georgia, Leo and Monroe; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to Rebecca, Thurman was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Donald Orr.

Thurman graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1958.

He was a member of the former Fairland United Methodist Church.

Thurman retired from Eli Lilly, with 15 years of service, in 2005.

He enjoyed painting trailers, bowling, making wine and going to Florida.

Visitation will be from Noon to 2 pm, Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville. The funeral service will follow, with Chaplain Janet Wallace officiating.

Interment will be in Fairland Cemetery in Fairland.

Online condolences may be shared with Thurman’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.