Evelyn Jane Barham

Evelyn Jane Kyker Barham, 82, peacefully passed-away at her home January 6, 2021 in Maryville, Tennessee. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Wilmer Bowers and Imogene Ellis Kyker. Jane is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Earl Raymond Barham, Sr. and their four children and spouses, Janet and Tom Ross, Linda and Bob Davis, Jr., Ray and Angie Barham, Jr. and John and Brigette Barham. Jane’s legacy lives on through her grandchildren, Ashton, Halle, Reese, Will, Jack, Reed, Tyler, Alex, Isabella, and Kirksey. She also leaves behind Emily K. Whitehead and Madge K. Sandidge, her two sisters and several nieces and nephews. Jane was born on March 26, 1938 in Sevierville, Tennessee, and later raised in the Wildwood Community in Blount County. Growing up her family were pillars of the community as her father was a farmer and owned Kyker's Tax Service, which still operates today, and her mother a homemaker. She graduated from Porter High School in 1955 where she earned All-State honors on the Porter High Panthers women’s basketball team. A true farmer’s daughter who could be as comfortable on a tractor, as she was in a new spring dress. On October 29, 1956, Jane married the love of her life, Earl Barham. Together they raised four children while also operating Kyker’s Tax office for over 40 years. Jane was an active member of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church in Maryville where she played the piano on occasion and taught many children’s Sunday School classes. Jane had a tremendous impact on countless lives in Blount County and will be remembered as a devout loyalist to the neighbors in her community. She was involved in numerous philanthropic causes and was driven by faith, inspired by her family, and deeply motivated by what scripture charges all to do; help your neighbor, and folks who cannot help themselves. She loved church on Sunday’s, gospel music, the Tennessee Vols, prodding cattle, a good joke, and most of all her children and grandchildren. The Barham family would like to thank Hospice and her beloved caregivers, especially Sarah Mace, for their countless devotion and love. A private family service will be held Saturday, January 9, 2021. The family asks in lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alztennessee.org or the Pat Head Summitt Foundation at www.patsummitt.org. Jane’s favorite scripture was II Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Evelyn Jane Barham please visit our Sympathy Store.