Donald Barden

Donald Eugene Barden Jr. “Little Donnie”, 44, of Hudson, passed away Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, at Catawba Valley Medical Center. Born April 18, 1977 in Catawba County, he was the beloved son of Donald and Donna Barden of Mocksville, NC. Donnie was a Christian; baptized at seven and having rededicated his life as an adult. He worked as a dispatcher for Old Dominion Truck Lines, where he had been employed for over 20 years.

Donnie was preceded in death by an infant son, Riley Davis Barden, and Grandmothers Macie Pruitt and Nellie Darden.

In addition to his parents, Donnie is survived by his daughter, Emma Barden of Hickory, who has always been at the center of her Daddy’s world. Also left behind to cherish his memory is his best friend and partner in life who he loved dearly, Lori Jinkerson, and her children Mason Webb and Emily Jinkerson.

Donnie is also survived by Grandfather Ralph Pruitt of Hickory; Uncles and Aunts who loved him dearly, Harlan and Carolyn Pruitt of Newton, Farrell and Cynthia Shuford of Vale, William "Bill" Pruitt of Mtn. View, Mickey and Danielle Pruitt of Lincolnton, Ralph Pruitt of Hickory, Keith and Darlene Wilson of Morganton, Steve and Linda Sitter of Florida, Jerry and Eva Barden of Claremont, Lyn and Pam Barden of Newton, Sheila Meija of Newton, Pam Buckalew of Newton, Albert Barden of Newton, Steve Barden of Newton, and Great Uncle James Tyndall and Great Aunt and Uncle Ruth an Earl Tyndall and a numerous amount of cousins.

Donnie lived a life full of adventure, triumphant love, and his favorite, taking care of his girls. Comfort is taken in knowing that the deep sorrow that was a part of Donnie’s life for the past 17 years is behind him as he is finally able to hold his precious boy, Riley, in his arms.

In his spare time, Donnie enjoyed hot rods, spending time outdoors, especially by a lake or river with a fishing pole in his hand. A favorite pastime was honing his advanced skills at gunsmithing.
Donnie was a man who truly loved his country and was an avid supporter of Donald Trump. His no pretense, genuinely kind and caring demeanor resulted in his being blessed with many wonderful friends who will surely miss his presence in their lives. A son who loved and was loved beyond measure, the definition of a doting dad, a true friend and trusted confidante; all fitting statements in describing the man Donnie will deservedly be remembered as.

The funeral service to honor Donnie’s life will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, February 5, in the chapel of Jenkins Funeral Home in Newton. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 2 to 3 p.m., at the funeral home.