Emilee France Barker

Emilee Jean Barker (France), 23, following a tragic car accident on Saturday, February 3rd, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 6th, 2024.  As a final act of selflessness, Emilee graciously gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation, impacting countless others.

Born on March 10th, 2000, in Washington State, Emilee's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with passion, talent, and kindness.  With unwavering support from her loving parents, Gary and Christine France, and siblings Raye, Joshua, and Samuel, she blossomed into a radiant individual who touched the hearts of everyone she met.

Emilee's love for dance bloomed at the tender age of 8, leading her to compete in ballroom and team formations throughout her high school years, including significant time with Pacific Ballroom Dance, Auburn, Washington.  Her artistic spirit thrived at Tuacahn High School in Ivins, Utah, where she honed her technical skills and discovered a passion for choreography like her mother.  This pursuit continued throughout her church mission service in Ohio for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Emilee flourished in dance studies at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), where she was poised to graduate this year with a double bachelor’s degree in dance “Performance and Choreography” and stage “Production Management”.

Beyond dance, Emilee's life was rich with diverse interests.  She found comfort and humor in watching TV and movies with her family, and indulged in rom-coms, thrillers and mysteries.  She expressed her creativity through video and music editing, and a budding modeling career.  She achieved daily enjoyment and pushed her limits through exercise, weightlifting, and Spartan races.  

Emilee married the love of her life Christopher Jarrell Barker, on May 12, 2023, at the Las Vegas Nevada LDS Temple.  Emilee and Chris packed in many quests during their dating and marriage, with a love for hiking and outdoor adventures, and many joyous rock concerts. Together they traveled the world this year making trips to Cancun, Scotland, and Panama.  Emilee cared for and supported her husband in all aspects of their lives, she helped bring their family closer through her love for her Father in Heaven and her perfect example of charity and kindness. 

Emilee's compassion extended far beyond personal pursuits.  She served and was employed as a registered behavioral therapist for special needs children, dedicating countless hours to supporting others.  Additionally, her unwavering faith led her to contribute thousands of hours to church humanitarian and youth programs.  Emilee fulfilled her calling in many church assignments where she took on challenges and learned the skills required.  Her final act of generosity in donating her healthy and strong body, to those desperately hoping for prolonged life, solidifies her legacy as a true hero and disciple of Jesus Christ.

Emilee's vibrant spirit resonated deeply within the artistic community of St. George.  Her infectious energy and genuine kindness left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.  Emilee held several dear friends close, but also went out of her way to bring joy, support, and friendship to thousands.

Emilee’s light will forever shine brightly in the hearts and memories of those who loved her.

A celebration of Emilee's life will be held on Saturday, February 17th, 2024, at 10:00am at the Snow Canyon High School Theater (1385 N 2400 W, St. George, UT 84770).  Those attending are encouraged to wear a touch of yellow or color to reflect Emilee's vibrant spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Emilee Jean Barker (France) Memorial Fund: Venmo - @emileebarkerfrancememorialfund, or Mountain America Credit Union (MACU) - Emilee Jean Barker (France) Memorial Fund.  Photos and videos of Emilee are encouraged and can be sent to emileefrancebarker@dropevent.com or uploaded directly to dropevent.com/emileefrancebarker.