Emma SeWilla Quave Barker's Obituary
Emma SeWilla Quave Barker passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was born in Bush, LA on January 24, 1933.
She is survived by five daughters, “The Barker Girls”: Leah Beth Barker Nettles (Donald), Rhonda Barker Smith (Stephen), Kathy Barker Foxworth (Greg), Laurie Lea Barker, Mary Barker Rodrigue (Rod); one brother, Merlie Jenkins; seven grandchildren: Michael Nettles (Robyn), Bryan Nettles (Jennifer), Stephanie Smith McCray (Robbie), Jennifer Smith Thibodeaux (Josh), Sky Foxworth (Tiffany), MaryClaire Rodrigue and Julian Rodrigue III (Lauren); and seven great-grandchildren, Claire Nettles, Emma Nettles, Lillie Belle and Stephen Thibodeaux, Emery and Bryant McCray and Bea Foxworth. She was preceded in death by her husband William “Bill” Barker; her parents, James and Rachel Quave; one brother, James Quave, Jr. and three sisters, Ella Vee Jenkins, Mary Lou Anglin and Estelle “Dolly” Barker.
SeWilla Barker was a loving wife and mother. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored and loved her. She was known for her hospitality and her servants’ heart for the people in her community. She graduated from Covington High School.
She was a faithful church attender and gifted homemaker. Her domestic skills included cooking, baking, sewing, decorating and gardening. She also enjoyed woodworking.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The William B. Barker Endowed Scholarship In Special Education and/or Elementary Education at Southeastern Louisiana University, 500 West University Ave., Hammond, LA 70402.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W 21st Avenue, Covington LA 70433 on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM with visitation on Monday beginning at 9:00 AM. Interment will follow in Barker McManus Cemetery.
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. The Barker family invites you to share thoughts, fondest memories, and condolences online at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home Guest Book at https://www.ejfieldingfh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Emma SeWilla?
What’s a lesson you learned from Emma SeWilla?
Share a story where Emma SeWilla's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Emma SeWilla you’ll never forget.
How did Emma SeWilla make you smile?
