Hazel Barker, 89, of Rock Island joined her husband Stan and daughter Susan in the "Celestial Choir" on August 26th, 2016.

Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory in Rock Island is assisting the family with arrangements. A memorial service will be held at 2 :00 pm on October 15, 2016 at Two Rivers United Methodist Church, Rock Island. Condolences and memorials may be sent to Two Rivers United Methodist Church (formerly First United Methodist Church) in Rock Island, Christ United Methodist Church in East Moline or to the funeral home.

Hazel was born April 11, 1927 in Amarillo, Texas to Glenwood and Lucille Quillin Hutton. She graduated from Brownwood High School at the age of sixteen and four years later graduated with honors from the School of Music at Texas Christian University. There she met her future husband, Stan Barker, through their mutual interest in music.

In 1948 the newlyweds left for the Midwest and the start of their new careers.  For Stan, Industrial Marketing and Hazel, 52 years in church music. Illinois and Wisconsin provided the ideal locations for their talents. Their three children sang and played musical instruments and were involved in many programs. Hazel developed small ensembles in addition to being a contralto soloist for special events. Those were great years but better years were to come. After four years in Wisconsin they moved back to the Quad Cities. Stan was promoted to the corporate headquarters of Deere while Hazel started her career with the First United Methodist Church in Rock Island.

After 37 years as Director of Music Ministries at First United Methodist Church in Rock Island, Hazel retired in December of 2003. Upon retirement, a gala celebration was held starring the members of the Sanctuary Choir. They presented many beautiful gifts among much drama and laughter. The most important and exciting event was the unveiling of a mysteriously covered object, an enormous framed portrait of Hazel to be placed outside the choir room. She was also honored with the title of "Director of Music Emeritus" and the naming of the music room. What a "mountain top" experience.

A surprise presentation by son, Larry, brought laughter and tears as he talked of various people whose lives had been touched by Hazel. To top it off, he announced that the family had commissioned Allen Pote to compose an anthem in honor of their mother. When announced, in her usual exuberance, Hazel popped out of her seat saying "he's my favorite". The premier performance took place in May of 2004. What a great way to conclude a remarkable career.

None of this could have taken place without her husband of 61 years. Music brought them together in 1946 and he remained her strongest supporter in all ways making her dreams come true. These honors were also his.

Hazel is survived by two children, Larry (Stephanie) of Aldie, Virginia, and Cathy (Dr. Joe) Gardiner of Moline. There are three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and sister, Juanita Thomas of Bradenton, Florida. In addition to her husband and daughter, other deceased family members include her parents, Stan's parents, three brothers and many special cousins.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ahmed Okba and the staff at Friendship Manor for their tireless care and support.

Online condolences may be left at wheelanpressly.com