John Walter “Jack” “Rabbit” Barton, 85, of Houma, La., died July 5, 2026. Mr. Barton graduated from Crystal City High School and was recruited to play basketball at Nicholls State University on an athletic scholarship. From 1961 to 1965, he played point guard for the Colonels, leaving a lasting mark on the program. In 2005, he was inducted into the Nicholls State University Athletics Hall of Fame. He remained a devoted supporter of Nicholls athletics throughout his life, attending basketball games each season, including this past year. Following college, he began a career in the oil and gas industry with Magcobar Dresser Industries, where he worked as a petroleum mud engineer, salesman and seaplane pilot. After the oil industry downturn in the 1980s, he transitioned into selling life insurance and pre-need funeral plans, where he was known for his work ethic, meticulous notetaking and dedication to serving others. His success brought many awards and opportunities to travel the world with his wife. He enjoyed sports, fishing, hunting, boating, caring for his many dogs, playing the guitar, singing and dancing. Most of all, he loved sharing stories and spending time with family and friends. He will be remembered for his warm spirit, generous heart and unwavering optimism. Born March 25, 1941, and raised in Crystal City, he was the son of the late Walter S. "Dubbs" Barton and Jeanette "Janie" Magre Barton.
He was preceded in death by his wife: Barbara "Bobbie" Clement Barton.
He is survived by three children: Kelly Barton (Stephen) Theriot, Stephanie Barton Maxwell and John Scott Barton; six grandchildren: Henri (Camille) Theriot, Adele Theriot, Tate Maxwell, Juliana Barton, Genevieve Barton and John Avery Barton; a great-granddaughter: Tessa Clark; a sister: Dolly Barton Streit; two brothers-in-law: Richard Clement (Donna) and Keith (Mary Ann) Clement; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He also was preceded in death by his parents-in-law: Henry C. "Tiger" Clement and Dorothy Olivia “Dot” Clement; and his brother-in-law: Capt. J. Brent Streit.
A memorial visitation is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. until a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at Samart Funeral Home of Houma, 4511 West Park Ave., in Gray, La. A reception will follow from noon to 1 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Samart Funeral Home of Houma.