Shirley L. Barnhart, 88, of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.
She was born in Carbondale, Illinois, on a Sunday, February 16, 1936, the daughter of Richard Reimer and Adaline (Kirchner) Reimer. On December 18, 1954, in Chester, Illinois, Shirley married the love of her life, Weldon “Barney” Barnhart and he preceded her in death on April 18, 2010.
Shirley is survived by her loving children: Kenneth Weldon Barnhart of Lenexa, Kansas; Donald Dean Barnhart and wife Melissa of Fishers, Indiana; and Gayla Marie Jackson of Centralia; daughter-in-law: Joy Barnhart of Bradenton, Florida; grandchildren: Angela (Barnhart) Hull and husband Ryan of El Dorado, KS, Lori (Barnhart) Heinze and husband Jared of Overland Park, Kansas, Ryan Barnhart and wife Eilish of Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK, Emma (Barnhart) Feick and husband Wylan of Fishers, Indiana, Spencer Barnhart of Fishers, Indiana, Callie Jackson of Urbana and Dr. Brittany Dobill and husband Dustin of Mulkeytown; great-grandchildren: Addison, Landon, Kadence, Kennady, Patrick, Felix, Elizabeth, Cody, Carter, and Sadie; several nieces and nephews.
She preceded in death by her parents: Richard and Adaline Reimer, husband, Weldon “Barney” Barnhart, her son, Ronald Gene Barnhart, daughter-in-law: Deb (Rogers) Barnhart, son-in-law: Greg Jackson, and two brothers: Earle Reimer and Clifford Reimer.
Shirley’s warmth and caring nature touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends. As a devoted member of her community, she was active in her church and supported various causes dear to her heart, including the First Christian Church, previous members of the Redeemer Lutheran Church, and the Centralia V.F.W. Auxiliary. Shirley had a passion for quilting and sewing. Shirley’s legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know her.
Funeral Services will be held Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Rev. Paula Comper officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. Visitation will be held Sunday afternoon from 1:00 PM until the time of service at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations be made to the First Christian Church in her memory, reflecting Shirley’s long-standing commitment to her faith and community. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
