Jerry Barker moved to Van Zandt County in 1980 with his parents and family. He attended Wills Point Junior High School before graduating with a high school diploma from Northridge Christian Academy in Edgewood in 1986.

Jerry first became interested in the political activities of our country while attending a Christian school, which instilled in him conservative Christian values. He is a firm believer that our public officials should have high moral character, and that it is a Christian's right, as well as duty to serve in their communities. George Washington said it best in his Farewell Address:

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars."

After graduation, Jerry felt compelled to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his four-year tour of duty, Jerry visited various countries and learned about many different cultures. He spent eight months in the Middle East during Operation Desert Shield/Storm.

Upon returning from the Gulf War, Jerry met his wife, Mary (Paulson), at Northside Baptist Church in Mesquite, Texas. Jerry and Mary were married December 30, 1995 and make their home in Wills Point. They attend First Baptist Church in Edgewood.

Jerry recently graduated from Trinity Valley Community College with an A.A.S. in Criminal Justice. In December 2001 he will graduate from the University of North Texas with a B.S. in Criminal Justice.

Jerry and Mary have always been voters, but became actively involved in the Republican Party during the Clinton Administration. During Election 2000 they served in various campaigns on the local level to help spread conservative principles and traditional family values. Some of their fondest memories include serving as Delegate (Jerry) and Alternate (Mary) at the 2000 Republican Party of Texas State Convention in Houston, and attending George W. Bush's Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. in January 2001.