Barbara Sears

Barbara Elaine Sears, 71, of Shirley, passed away at 9:25 a.m. on Sunday, March 20, 2022 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Barbara was born on November 12, 1950 in Bloomington, the daughter of Louis “Tiger” and Verna Stautz Thompson. She married Chester Sears on June 11, 1969 in Saint Charles, MO.

Surviving are her loving husband of 52 years, Chester Sears of Shirley; children, Eric Sears of Normal, Angela (Jason) Smith of Rochester, and Nicole (Terry, Jr.) Higgs of Heyworth; brother, Rodger (Patty) Thompson of El Paso, TX, 3 granddaughters and 5 grandsons.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Mike Thompson.

Barbara strived to make an impact, raising many children over the 40 years she provided in home childcare. Her love and lasting impression caused her to accumulate many indirect family members. Barbara enjoyed cooking and feeding everyone. She loved cruising with Chester and was a member of Twin City Cruisers. Barbara especially enjoyed family get-togethers and the time she spent with her grandchildren.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to the staff at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, the OSF Hospice team and Home Health Care for their compassionate care.

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