OREGON – Barbara J. Barnes, 89, longtime Oregon resident, died Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 in Serenity Hospice Home, Oregon surrounded by her family after a long illness. Born Aug. 1, 1929, with her twin brother Bradley, to William and Nina (Hardesty) Taft.
Barbara married her one true love, James Barnes, on March 20, 1947 in Decatur. She was the Mother of four: James Barnes, Virginia (Robert) Pearson, Alan Barnes and Penny (William) Stoughton.
She was preceded in death by her parents, son Alan, grandson James Pearson, daughter-in-law Diane Barnes and numerous brothers and sisters.
Barbara is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and sister, Nina Whetsel of Byron. Family always came first for Barbara.
She and her husband Jim owned and operated Bill's Shoe Service in Oregon for 30 years and she was an accomplished shoe repair person. Barbara volunteered at numerous organizations including the Senior Center, Oregon Ambulance and Lifeline Food Pantry and was noted for her pie baking ability. She and Jim were also members of Black Hawk Twirlers Square Dance Club for 25 years.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life was held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2 in Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Oregon with Pastor Michael Hoffman of Oregon Church of God officiating. Visitation was 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31 in the funeral home. Private burial will be at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.
