Troy Joseph Barks, 51, of Starks, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026. Born on June 24, 1975, in Sulphur, he was the son of Elton and Barbara Barks.
A graduate of Starks High School, Troy devoted 30 years to a career in law enforcement. He faithfully served 17 years with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and 13 years with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Law Enforcement Division. Throughout his career, he was committed to protecting and serving others with dedication and professionalism.
Troy was a member of VFW Post 4759 in Starks. Away from work, he found his greatest enjoyment in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He also appreciated classic country and rock music, but the place he loved most was home. A devoted husband and father, he treasured time spent with his family and the everyday moments they shared together.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Shawna Anne Elizabeth Barks; his sons, Troy Barks, Jr. and Wyatt Barks; his parents, Elton Barks and Barbara Barks; his sisters, Ella Barks, and Catherine Ortolon; his brother-in-law, J.J. Ortolon; and his first wife, Heather Milton.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 17, at First Pentecostal Church of Starks, 225 LA-109, in Starks, with Rev. Ron Butler officiating. Burial followed in Miller Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home of Sulphur. Visitation was held at the church on Thursday, July 16, from 5 until 10 p.m. Visitation resumed Friday morning at 8:30 a.m. and continue until the time of the service.
Serving as pallbearers were Lawrence Milton, Troy Barks, Jr., J.J. Ortolon, Ron Edgington, Trent Seay, and Shane Fountain. Wyatt Barks will serve as honorary pallbearer.
The family is grateful for the love, prayers, and kindness extended to them during this time as they remember Troy’s life and the years they were blessed to share with him.
(Paid Memorial)
