Esther Christine "Chris" Barger

Esther C. "Chris" Barger, 83, of Scottsburg, Indiana passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Hickory Creek of Scottsburg with her loving family by her side. She was born on December 12, 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky, the daughter of the late John C. Stevens Sr. and Dorothy Mae (Ware) Stevens. Chris's life was defined by her unwavering love for her family and her dedication as a homemaker, where she created a nurturing sanctuary filled with warmth and laughter. On March 17, 1962 in Richmond, Kentucky at Muddy Creek Christian Church she married the love of her life, Joe C. Barger, who survives. Throughout her life, Chris has been a beacon of love and support to not only her family but also to the many children she babysat over the years in her home. A member of the First Christian Church in Scottsburg, Indiana, she carried her faith close to her heart and exemplified kindness in all her interactions. Chris found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often drawing inspiration from the nostalgia of the 1950s. Yet, it was Christmas that held a special place in her heart; she welcomed the season each year with unparalleled enthusiasm, creating cherished traditions that her family will always remember. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Elmer Barger; stepson, Joe Barger; one sister, Barbara S. Avendano; two brothers, Charles W. Stevens and Michael W. Stevens; one grandson, Larry Barger, Jr.; great grandson, Alexander Lopez; and great great grandson, Colton Brumley. Her survivors include her husband of sixty-four years, Joe C. Barger; one daughter, Christine C. "Tina" (Doc) Smith of Lexington, Indiana; one son, John (Angie) Barger of Scottsburg, Indiana; one stepson, Larry (Jean) Barger of Manchester, Kentucky; daughter in law, Tammy Barger; one sister, Dorothy H. Harris of Scottsburg, Indiana; three brothers, John C. Stevens, Jr., Donald L. Stevens, Sr., and Joseph A. Stevens, Sr.; sister in law, Rita Stevens; eleven grandchildren, Leisha, Kimberly, Christopher, Brian, Brandon, Kaci, Isabella, Amanda, Wendy, Bobby, and Garry. Chris is also survived by several great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. Funeral Service for Chris Barger will be on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 11:00am at Collins Funeral Home in Scottsburg, Indiana. Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm and after 9:00 am Wednesday at Collins Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Scottsburg Cemetery in Scottsburg, Indiana. Memorial Contributions can be made in Chris's name to We Care c/o Collins Funeral Home.