Former Arizona resident, Hershel Barton, age 70, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2023 surrounded by his family, at his home in Fayette, MO.

Hershel Dee Barton was born in Oklahoma City, OK on July 12, 1952, a son to the late Burl Barton and Wrenetta (Jackson) Parker.  He graduated from Okemah High School in Oklahoma with the class of 1970.  Following high school, Hershel enlisted with the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for 10 years. Hershel served a 2-year tour in Vietnam as a door gunner. He received many awards and recognitions during his time in the military.  On December 29, 1974 in Tucson, AZ, Hershel married the love of his life, Donna Sue Marble. The couple recently celebrated their 48-year wedding anniversary.  After his time in the service, Hershel began his professional career in the construction industry.  He worked as a construction foreman for several years until his health rendered him unable around 1986.  From this point forward Hershel struggled with his health, however with Donna by his side he continued to live the best life he could. When he was able, Hershel enjoyed fishing and gardening and camping. Hershel will be remembered by those who knew him as a family man.  He loved attending his grandchildren’s school events and sports when his health would allow. He loved the noise of big family gatherings; he was absolutely happiest when all of his children and grandchildren were together. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Barton of Fayette, MO; three children, Tiffany Watson of Tucson, AZ, Dee (Jason) Hill of Fayette, MO and Jesse (Amanda) Barton of Lakeside, AZ; 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; four siblings, Bobby Ray (Wanda) Barton of Shawnee, OK, Juanita (Mike) Smith of Shawnee, OK, Phillip “Shorty” Parker of Okemah, OK and Archie “Peewee” Parker of Okemah, OK.  In addition to his parents, Hershel was preceded in death by two brothers, Jimmy Lee Barton and Roger Dale Barton, as well as a son-in-law, Jeremy Watson.

The family of Mr. Barton will hold a celebration of life gathering in Arizona at a later date.