Barbara Jean Farrero

Age 97, of Morris, Illinois, formerly of Coal City, Illinois, died on June 7, 2026, at Serenity Estates in Morris surrounded by family.

Born on September 19, 1928, in Morris, Barbara Jean was the daughter of Lillian Gilbertson. She was raised and educated in both Coal City and Morris and attended Coal City High School. On November 23, 1949, Barbara married the love of her life, John “Rip” Farrero, in the rectory of Assumption Catholic Church. Together, they shared a loving marriage and built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and enduring devotion.

Barbara worked in various positions including at Grannert’s Clothing Factory and the Paper Mill in Morris, Illinois throughout her life. She will most be defined however for her dedication to being a homemaker, taking great pride in caring for her home and family. A woman of deep faith, Barbara was a devoted member of her church and treasured her many friendships.

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a proud grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. Strong, resilient, and sharp-minded, Barbara was known for her honesty, sincerity, and straightforward nature. She cared deeply for others, always offering a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear. Her warmth, thoughtfulness, and unwavering love for those around her will be remembered and treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Barbara is survived by her children: Steven (Kathy) Farrero of Coal City and John Farrero of Morris; two grandchildren: Kara (Jack) Jirgl and David Farrero; six great-grandchildren: Haileigh Farrero, Parker Farrero, Sadie Farrero, Cole Jirgl, Gabriel Jirgl and Isaac Jirgl; two sisters: Sandi Viano and Dorothy Maschal, and several nieces and nephews, as well as her lifelong friend, Helen Muzzarelli.

Barb was preceded in death by her mother; husband, John “Rip”; great-granddaughter: Dylann Farrero; and two brothers: John "Jack" Savant and Paul Mitchel, as well as her lifelong friend, Elaine Squellati and special companion, Charles "Fitz" Fitzgerald.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway Street, in Coal City on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Assumption Catholic Church in Coal City. Father Josh Miller will preside and Deacon William Dunn will assist.

Barb will be laid to rest at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery with her husband, Rip. Pallbearers will be: Tony Savant, Jason Valerio, Richard Farrero, Chris Fitzgerald, Chris Greenley and John Gilbertson.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Barbara's memory to Lightways Hospice or to Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Coal city.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Barb’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)