“Every day brings the chance to make our systems work better for someone, whether it’s by streamlining a process, solving a problem or simply offering compassion during a difficult time in their life. Knowing I can make a real impact, both through service and connection, is incredibly fulfilling.”
While LaToya C. Barker’s path to leadership has been anything but linear, every step has been purposeful. With a career that has spanned insurance, public health, education and revenue, she brings a well-rounded perspective to her current role as Chief Clerk of the Montgomery County Probate Office. Appointed in 2021 as the first woman to hold the position, Barker found her calling in public service during the stillness of the pandemic, when she began reflecting on the kind of work that truly inspired her. What emerged was a deep-rooted passion for systems that serve people—and a commitment to leading with compassion, integrity and efficiency. Today, she’s not just developing policy behind the scenes—she’s working to shape and support systems that serve people well.
On The Job
I serve as the Chief Probate Clerk for Montgomery County, where I oversee the daily operations of the Probate Court across eight departments and three satellite offices. My role spans policy development, compliance, human resources, budgeting and customer service. I work closely with the Probate Judge to establish strategic priorities and ensure we serve the public with excellence. My work is a blend of judicial administration, public service and organizational leadership. I’ve always believed in the power of compassionate, efficient governance to create real, meaningful impact in people’s lives, and I’m proud to serve in a role where I can do just that.
Helping Hand
Giving back through community service is very important to me. I serve on the social justice and women’s ministries at First Baptist Church, Greater Washington Park. I’ve also been involved with the Junior League of Montgomery, where I worked with Brantwood Children’s Home, and served on the Women in Leadership Program Advisory Board at the University of North Alabama. I’m also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an organization deeply rooted in service and sisterhood. Through all these efforts, I stay committed to helping others and supporting the community that helped shape me.
Influential Figures
I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by strong, principled leaders throughout my life, starting with my incredible parents, Thomas Jr. and Lottie Calhoun. They laid a solid foundation for me and my brothers, instilling in us the values of hard work, family and purpose. My husband, Brandon Barker, is a constant source of support. He encourages me to lead with integrity and to never operate from a place of fear. Our children, Guillana “Skye” and Braylon, keep me grounded and inspired. They challenge me daily to balance work and motherhood with grace, and they always keep me up to date on what’s new in the world around them.
Personal Best
Becoming the first woman appointed as Chief Clerk of the Montgomery County Probate Office is one of my proudest accomplishments. It reflects years of hard work, dedication and resilience, and it’s a position that allows me to lead by example while improving systems that affect thousands of lives.
Future-Focused
One of my main goals is to begin planning for retirement in the next few years and to enjoy the fruits of my labor. I look forward to having more time to travel, give back in new ways and fully embrace the next chapter with peace and purpose.
Fulfilled
The most rewarding part of my work is the opportunity to serve people with dignity and fairness. I also truly enjoy coming to work each day alongside a team I respect, and over time, they’ve become like a second family. Knowing I can make a real impact, both through service and connection, is incredibly fulfilling.
Off The Clock
I’m often on the go as my kids’ personal Uber driver. I love planning events and getaways with my friends, and I really enjoy a great dining experience, good food, good vibes and great company.
Love List:
- Shop Local: House of Greek
- Dinner Date: Chandler’s Smokehouse Grill, Wishbone, Martha’s Place or Chuck’s Fish
- Cocktail Hour: You can’t go wrong with a Top Shelf Pomegranate Margarita.
- Quotable: “Earn Everything.” – Greg Davis (Elite Backcourt)
