Pat Barker

Founder and Board Member

Pat grew up in Atlanta and Augusta, Georgia. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in organic chemistry from Duke University at a time when it was rare for women to be involved in the sciences. After graduation, Pat joined Almay Cosmetics where she worked as a chemist to develop hypoallergenic products for 13 years until she resigned in 1977 to work with the Company she and her husband founded. 

One of Pat’s early contributions to Bob Barker Company was her idea to send a mailer to jails all over the Southeast. The response to that simple two-page mailer was so positive that it became the seed from which the business and catalog grew, not only within the Southeast but across the United States. 

While Bob traveled the world to discover solutions for customers’ product needs, Pat provided leadership for the business and their two children at home. As part of a small team, Pat worked alongside others to ensure customers had a favorable experience with Bob Barker Company that would build customer loyalty.

To build her business knowledge and skills, and to contribute in even greater ways, Pat attended Duke University again in 1996 where she obtained a master’s degree in business. Bob credits Pat’s analytical and conservative thinking for the financial viability of the Business, as she “pulled him back from a few crazy ideas.”

In recognition of Pat’s service and leadership, she has received several awards, including an honorary doctorate from Campbell University (2012) and the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Citizen Award (2021). Campbell University also named a student resident hall in her honor.

Pat retired after serving many years as Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary. She remains an active member of the Board of Directors. She enjoys their church family at Woodhaven Baptist Church in Apex, North Carolina, where she and Bob are founding members. She also enjoys time with family, including their six grandchildren.