Cheryl Barger

Cheryl Barger, 75, of Amarillo, Texas, stepped into eternity on January 1, 2026. With her trademark beautiful smile, she ran—joyful and pain-free—into the waiting arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To honor her life and celebrate her glorious homecoming, a memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at First Baptist Church, with Dr. Howard K. Batson officiating.

Cheryl was born on May 28, 1950, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Everett Robert “Bob” and Martina Moselle Franks. On April 12, 1968, a month prior to graduating from Haltom High School, Cheryl married the love of her life, Jerry Barger. Jerry received his military draft letter in February, and she could not bear the thought of him leaving without them being married. Their union began a 57-year journey marked by unwavering devotion, deep partnership, compassion, and a love that served as the cornerstone of their family.

In her own words, Cheryl described Jerry as “the best partner in the world,” crediting him with providing her endless “confidence, encouragement, love, and forgiveness.” To her, he was always her “knight in shining armor.” Cheryl cherished her role as Jerry’s wife and was a fiercely devoted mother to their two children, Jeffrey and Julianne. For many years, she dedicated her life to her home, often stating that her children were her “greatest joy ever.” Whether she was cheering at Jeffrey’s baseball games or listening to Julianne sing, Cheryl was a constant, loving presence in every milestone of their lives.

While her family was her world, the only love that surpassed her devotion to them was her love for Christ. Cheryl channeled her energy into ministry at Victory Baptist Church in Haltom City, Texas. Alongside her mother, she taught Sunday School to seventh-grade girls and was a devoted supporter of the youth group. She volunteered extensively for church camps, vacation Bible school, and youth activities, including lock-ins and ski trips.

In 1988, Jerry received a job offer in Amarillo that felt like more than just a career move—it felt like a divine assignment. The transition wasn't easy; for Cheryl, it meant saying a painful goodbye to the friends, family, and church community that had been her world. Despite her fears, she stood by Jerry’s side, anchored by the conviction that this move was the next chapter in a story God was writing for their family.

Upon joining San Jacinto Baptist Church (The Church at Quail Creek), Cheryl was warmly embraced by the congregation. She quickly became a cornerstone of the church community, dedicating her time and talents to the service of her Lord. While Jeffrey and Julianne were in high school, Jerry and Cheryl taught Sunday School to high school seniors for several years and actively participated in youth group activities. Their home quickly became the “hangout” for many of the church's youth. Cheryl served as a surrogate mom over the years, offering guidance, wisdom, support, and love to everyone she met.

After her children graduated high school, Cheryl felt a divine calling to expand her ministry. Under the leadership of Dr. Stan and Glenda Coffey, she served with distinction as the Women’s Ministry Director and founded the Mary Martha Grief Ministry. Her leadership extended to the state level as a board member for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC) Women’s Ministry. Despite these executive roles, she remained deeply rooted in the local congregation, teaching third-grade Sunday School and directing countless weddings—many for the same individuals she had mentored since their youth. Throughout her tenure, she also served the church professionally, offering steady hands and a servant’s heart as an administrative assistant to the pastoral team. Her legacy is defined by a rare balance of executive leadership and humble, hands-on service.

Cheryl and Jerry found a new spiritual family at First Baptist Church; however, most of their interaction was via the television ministry due to Cheryl’s declining health. Her resilience in the face of failing health was a testament to her faith; she remained a "dedicated servant," regularly sending cards of encouragement to Dr. Batson, countless friends and family, and ministering to incarcerated women through Sharing Hope Ministries until a week prior to her death. For Cheryl, her struggles were never an excuse to stop, but rather a catalyst for a deeper ministry of grace. Her life was a beautiful example of finding divine purpose amid personal trial.

Cheryl’s zest for life was evident throughout in her love for painting, snow skiing, taking flying lessons, and sailing with Jerry. She was an exceptional cook who delighted in sharing her culinary talents with family and friends.

Cheryl’s life was a testament to family, faith, service, and perseverance. She will be remembered for her steadfast devotion to God, her profound love for her family, and the quiet kindness that encouraged everyone she met.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Bob Franks.

Cheryl’s greatest joy was found in the family she so dearly loved. She is survived by the love of her life and husband, Jerry Barger. Her legacy of love and kindness lives on through her son, Jeff Barger and wife Kristen and daughter, Julianne Carter and husband Barret. She was the most doting grandmother to Audrianna Bailes (fiancé Ian West) and Madelynne Gross (husband James), and she took immense pride in being a great-grandmother to Landon and Olin. Cheryl also leaves behind two beloved Godchildren, Caroline Sisemore Hawkins and Danielle Sisemore Dunn, who held a special place in her heart.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Cheryl’s memory to Sharing Hope Ministry, Inc. by clicking the link or by mailing your gift to:
Sharing Hope Ministry, Inc., P.O. Box 7160 Amarillo, TX 79114 or to Samaritan's Purse by clicking the link or by mailing your gift to Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone NC 28607.