Virginia Lee Barker

Virginia Lee Barker, 81, of Springfield died at 10:02 pm Sunday, September 15, 2013 at Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina. She was born January 25, 1932 in Springfield, IL to Andrew R. and Vernelia Neuroth Crowell. She married Glenn R. Barker on August 23, 1975 and he preceded her in death July 30, 2011.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, William Elwin and Kenneth R. Crowell and a nephew, Kevin E. Crowell.

Surviving are five nieces, Pamela Jean “PJ” Brunson of Rock Hill, SC, Kendra Josephine (Crowell) Paoni of Springfield, Helen Waters of Hot Springs Village, AR, Carole Puls of New Berlin and Pamela Gaspard of Springfield and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Virginia was a lifelong resident of Springfield. She retired from Illinois Bell Telephone after 31 years of service and was a lifetime member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. She was a member of the United Methodist Women, Miriam Circle and Rainbow Girls.

A kind and generous soul, she volunteered regularly at the Washington Street Mission, and was a long-time supporter of Cunningham Children’s home. She was a faithful companion, a loyal friend, a doting aunt, and always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. A woman of great faith, she was a shining example of Christian love and charity.

Visitation: 9:30-10:30 am Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at Concordia Lutheran Village Chapel.

Funeral Service: 10:30 am Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at Concordia Lutheran Village Chapel with Reverend Robert McDonald officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church or Cunningham Children’s Home.