Okie E. Barton, 80, of Stewartsville, OH died Friday, March 26, 2021 at his home.  He was born November 9, 1940 in Powhatan Point, OH a son of the late Okey and Laura Newhart Barton.

Okie was retired from North American Coal Company #5 mine in Powhatan Point and served as vice president of District 6 United Mine Workers Association.  He also served as a deputy sheriff under Sheriff Kathy Crumbley at the Belmont County Sheriff's Office.  He was a Methodist by faith and proudly served in the U.S. Army.  He was a member of the Glencoe American Legion and the NRA.

The most important thing to Okie was his role as a father.  His dedication and love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was immense.  Simply listening to his grandchildren laugh and play brought him such joy.  He cherished his long conversations with his family where he could share with them his wisdom and guidance.  His protection and strength will be greatly missed by his girls.

Fathers like ours never die, he will live in our hearts for eternity.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Okie E. Barton, Jr.; a granddaughter, Alisha Barton; a daughter-in-law, Annie Barton.

Surviving are his loving wife of 57 years, Margaret Garloch Barton of Stewartsville; two daughters, Crystal (Mick) McGuire of Bellaire, OH and Dawn (Cody) Barack of St. Clairsville, OH; a sister, Melda Gallaher of Powhatan Point; grandchildren, Mick McGuire, Jr., Rachel Curtin, Chad McGuire, Jenna Barack, Abbey Barack, Chloe Barack, Luke Eugene Barack; great-grandchildren, Lilli Curtin, Layla Curtin, Darrow Curtin.

Due to COVID-19, social distancing and masks are required.

Friends will be received on Wednesday from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at Toothman Funeral Home, St. Clairsville with funeral services on Thursday at 11 am with Rev. Tom Jones officiating.  Burial will follow in Warnock Cemetery.  Full military honors will be conducted graveside by the Belmont County Veterans Association.

Memorial contributions may be made to Valley Hospice.