Tracey Schwieger

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Mr. Barton was the superintendent when I was a student at Rivercrest. I always had a great deal of respect for him. He always had a smile and a hello when I would see him. He was a wonderful man and will be missed by all who knew him.

David & Toni Nichols

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Whit & Larry: So sorry to hear about your Dad. I always admired him growing up. He will be missed by many over his years as an educator, administrator & coach; and has affected more lives than you will ever know! Rest in Peace Coach!

Christine Heard Shoemake

Monday, April 13, 2015

Witt, Larry and families,
I am one of many of your Mom and Dad's students from Keiser. I was informed this morning by my former boss and fellow educator as your Dad, Mr. Herbert Carter, former Supt. of Marion School District, of Coach Barton's death. I have to tell you I am so sorry for your loss, but for mine as well. Both your parents were special to those of us during the later 1950s. We loved both of them. They were young and were such fun to all of us. Of course, we all remember "Buzz" and his ability to pitch his hat into the crowd when he wanted to make a point with the referees during one of many heated and close games. He was noted for his name and his showmanship with his hat as well as having a great love for sports. I have tried to keep in touch with him through the years and have always enjoyed his conversation and unique laughter. He was so gracious to come to my Dad's funeral. I so appreciated that he took the time to do that for me. I must tell you, I wore a yellow jacket basket ball uniform, but rarely played. I always sat the bench by him and took notes of the things he said during the games. We always had a good laugh after the games reading or trying to read what I had written what he had said. The one lesson I have carried with me all of these years from his comments and I bet you can recall his saying this also: "Two wrongs don't make a right." I have quoted that remark to my children many times. Witt, when you were born, we all loved the new baby. I wanted to do something for you, so you were the recipient of a tiny little black and white checked shirt I made for you in my Home Ec. Class. And to conclude some of my treasured memories of your parents. When you were born, Larry in December, 1962, I was having my second child in the hospital as your Mom came in to Osceola Hospital and gave birth to you. I always think of you as we have celebrated our daughter, Carla's birthday on Dec. 21st through the years. Your folks are no longer with us, but they certainly will not be forgotten by many, especially me. Most sincerely, Chris Shoemake, Marion, AR