Tim Barksdale has served the City of Laurel Parks & Recreation Department since 2017, beginning as Program Supervisor before moving into the role of Program Coordinator, Parks & Recreation Superintendent, and, in 2026, Parks & Recreation Director. Originally from Columbus, Mississippi, Tim moved to Soso in 1998 and, after residing in St. Louis, MO for a few years, returned permanently in 2002. His years of involvement in youth sports, including serving on the board of the local DYB organization helped build the foundation for his career in parks and recreation.

Throughout his career with the City, Tim has helped oversee the department’s wide range of responsibilities, including parks, athletic fields, community centers, cemeteries, facilities maintenance and traffic maintenance. He has also played a role in several recreational improvements, including the softball fields at the Laurel Sportsplex, the skate park at Daphne Park, new playground equipment at Mason Park, and the Splash Pad at Boston Park. What Tim enjoys most about his work is the opportunity to help people and provide facilities, programs, and services that make a difference throughout the community. 

As Director, Tim’s priorities include expanding opportunities for city youth sports while continuing the standard of excellence at the Laurel Sportsplex. A longtime youth baseball coach, he enjoys watching tennis, baseball, and softball, and spending time with his family. Tim and his wife, Dixie, have three children, daughter Macy, sons Brayden and Landry, and grandson Tatum.