Barbara H. Babbs

CHARLESTON, IL – Barbara H. Babbs, age 96 of Charleston and formerly of Ashmore, Illinois, went to her Heavenly Home on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Visitation will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2019 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. The Funeral Service, honoring and celebrating her life, will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral chapel with Pastor Whit Lauwers officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston. Donations in her honor may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church for the Comfort Dog Ministry or to a charity of the donor’s preference. Gifts may be left at the visitation/service or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.

Barbara was born March 13, 1923 in Charleston, a daughter of the late Ray and Cleo (McElwee) Pierce. She married John Melvin Babbs on October 11, 1943 and they celebrated 47 years of marriage prior to his death on March 1, 1991. Left to cherish their many fond and loving memories are her children, Jewell Trost and husband Robert of Auburn, Illinois and Roger Babbs and wife Cathy of Charleston; four grandchildren, Corey Babbs and wife Lauren of Ashmore, Christina Coffey and husband Tony of Charleston, Paul Trost and wife Meredith of Chicago, and Mark Trost of Clive, Iowa; four great-grandchildren, Jake and Ben Coffey and Miles and Vivian Trost; three sisters-in-law, Lucille Pierce of Charleston, and Marilyn Doty and Debbie Pierce of Mattoon; and nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Don, Max and Dale Pierce.

Barbara was a graduate of Charleston High School. She was employed by Alexander’s Department Store on the Charleston Square, and following her marriage to John, she enjoyed her role as a homemaker and farmer’s wife. She was a woman who possessed a deep and abiding faith and was actively involved with the Oakland Christian Church and later at Central Christian Church in Charleston where she and John were Charter Members.

Barbara enjoyed the outdoors, her flower gardens she utilized in landscaping their yard, and helping with the many chores on the family farm. There wasn’t a farm animal that she didn’t fall in love with and was especially fond of the dogs, cats and chickens! Barbara loved her home and was a marvelous cook and the aromas of freshly baked light rolls or cookies would often greet you at the door. She loved her family dearly and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She loved visiting with family and friends and hearing and sharing many fond stories. She will truly be missed by those who knew and loved her.

Funeral Service
The Funeral Service honoring and celebrating the life of Barbara Babbs was held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2019 at Adams Funeral Chapel with Pastor Whit Lauwers officiating. Ruth Ann Craig served as pianist, playing some of Barbara's favorite hymns: "How Great Thou Art", "Old Rugged Cross", "Softly and Tenderly" and "Amazing Grace". Her granddaughter, Christina Coffey gave the eulogy sharing many fond memories of grandma. Burial followed in Roselawn/Mound Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Corey Babbs, Tony Coffey, Paul Trost, Mark Trost, Lyle Pierce, Ric Pierce, Jake Coffey and Ben Coffey.

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