Joey Barksdale

Augusta, GA – On Sunday, March 31, 2024, Joseph “Joey” Robert Barksdale, Sr., passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. His departure on Easter Sunday seems fitting, as he went to be with the Lord.

Joey was a proud native of Augusta, Georgia who was employed by Lift One as a Material Handling Consultant and Account Manager. He was also an active member of Wesley United Methodist Church. Graduating from Westside High School in 1991, Joey excelled in baseball, a sport he loved dearly. His talent led him to Southern Union in Wadley, Alabama, and ultimately to a memorable stint with the Boston Red Sox from 1993 to 1996. Beyond sports, Joey had a profound appreciation for history, often quoting lines from "The Godfather," lyrics from Pearl Jam and the Eagles, and the wisdom of former Presidents. He found joy in cheering for UGA Football and the annual excitement of the Masters Tournament. Vacations, whether to the beach or the mountains, were cherished moments for him.

In April 2023, Joey courageously faced a diagnosis of Colon/Rectal cancer. Throughout his battle, he met each day with strength and resilience, touching countless lives with his big personality and zest for life. Joey’s absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family would like to thank the nurses on the 7th floor of Emory Hospital for their kindness and supportive care.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of over 25 years, Allison Becton Barksdale; his children, Joseph R. Barksdale, Jr. and Caroline L. Barksdale; his mother, Marie Bonnett Barksdale; his brothers, Will Barksdale IV (Deanie) and John Barksdale (Samantha); his sister, Connie Miller (Carey); nieces and nephews, Beth Barksdale Abbott, Kay Barksdale, Will Barksdale V, Viola Claire Barksdale, Asher Barksdale, Will Rogers, Paige Rogers Arrington, Parks Ellison, Anna Grace Ellison Bates, Miles Ellison; and by great nieces and nephews and extended family members. He had a special bond with his niece, Kay, and there is no doubt she will find ways to honor his memory on family vacations for years to come. He was preceded in death by his father, William Iverson Barksdale III.

A memorial service to honor Joey’s life will take place on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at Wesley United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Greg Porterfield. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Honorary pallbearers will be Scott Allen, Matt Brackx, Doug Coleman, Bert Durand, Brad Foster, Wade Holland, Ted Pintar and John Turner.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Wesley United Methodist Church, 825 N. Belair Road, Evans, GA 30809.

Arrangements are entrusted to Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, located at 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907. For condolences and to share memories of Joey, please visit www.thomaspoteet.com.