Richard Wayne Barton

Richard Wayne Barton, 79, of Scottsville, KY passed away at home surrounded by his family on Monday, May 25, 2026.  Richard was born to Odean and Daren Barton on March 21, 1947 in Allen County in a small house on the family farm.  His childhood was filled with love of family and greatly influenced by his Granddaddy Barton.  He grew up with his brother Porter and cousins Brenda, Catherine, Geraldine and Glenn.  His childhood molded his deep convictions of family importance.  At a young age he found his soul salvation on the mourners bench of Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church.  After graduating from Allen County High School it was not long before he was drafted into the Vietnam War.  He served his country as a Military Policeman in Vietnam.  After discharge he continued in law enforcement with the Kentucky State Police as unit #314 for 27 years of service.  Over half his KSP stent was spent on the drug task force.  There were many stories and great friendships established in his time with KSP.  Upon retirement from KSP it did not take him long to figure out that fishing at Stephens Winter Resort with Chris Keen was fun for a few months, but he had been so accustomed to farming full time and KSP full time that he needed to return in some form into law enforcement.  That led to his position as Drug Task Force Director in Sumner County, TN.  After 16 years of service for the state of TN he retired his badge and finally just had one job: the farm and being a Granddaddy.  In every position he held the one thing you knew for sure is that he worked hard and gave his very best.  He expected nothing less from his children and grandchildren.  He was rough around the edges always giving his opinion whether you asked for it or not, but he loved big and cared deeply.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years: Carolyn Swindle Barton, Scottsville, KY;

1 son: Chris Barton (Amy), Scottsville, KY;

1 daughter: Laura Barton Howell (Terry Michael), Scottsville, KY;

1 brother: Porter Barton (Fay), Scottsville, KY;

7 grandchildren: Aaron, Brett, Kenzie, Addie, Caitlyn, Dillon and Eli;

1 nephew: Mike Barton (Jennifer), Scottsville, KY;

1 great nephew: Colton Barton, Rhode Island;

1 great niece: Ellee Barton, Scottsville, KY;

Bonus sons: Taylor Ward (Tracy) and Greg Bunch (Toni);

Grand dogs: Ranger and Henry.

Graveside service will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday at Crescent Hill Cemetery with Bro. Jeff Costello officiating and military honors by Glasgow D.A.V. Chapter 20 and KSP honors.  Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude's.  Donations may be made at Goad Funeral Home.

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