Barbara's obituary
It is with profound sorrow that I announce the passing of Barbara Jean Bullard in the early morning of May 21, 2025. Born on July 7, 1945, Barbara brought wit, kindness, and care into the world, leaving an indelible legacy of love. Barbara's smart and gracious personality touched many people, while her nurturing spirit made her loved ones feel cherished and protected.
Barbara moved to Chicago in 1963 from her home in WV and marked a significant milestone in her life in 1969 by marrying the love of her life, Donald Alexander Bullard, who predeceased her in 2017. Together they welcomed a daughter in 1974, Kerri Beth Bullard, who survives her and continues her mother’s legacy. Barbara was also predeceased by her treasured granddaughter, Abbi Rose.
In 2007, Barbara retired from a fruitful career. Her life was not defined by professional accomplishment but rather by her personal life, regarding the birth and raising of her daughter as her crowning achievement. The simple pleasures of life gave her the greatest joy - dining on anything sweet, especially pie, listening to music by The Eagles, and cheering for The Chicago Bears. Barbara was a true fan of the television arts, relishing shows like The Handmaids Tale, Wheel of Fortune, along with various 70's/80's game shows and diverse spiritual podcasts.
Barbara was a woman of many hobbies which included playing rummy 500, canasta, and attending numerous plays and musicals. Her serenity found expression in her love for sewing and writing, while her vivacity was evident in her love for dancing and music. She was an avid reader and fond of long conversations with her brothers and sisters. She also found joy in swimming and spending time in places near the ocean.
Barbara's philanthropic interests were as diverse as her hobbies. She cared deeply for her husband, daughter, her siblings, her neices, nephews, cousins and her many dogs. The love she had for her family was mirrored in her preference for colors, blue and yellow, symbolic of warmth, calm and happiness.
Her greatest lesson to others was to treat every individual with respect and kindness, a principle she adhered to and relayed through her actions. Her legacy, of love, will forever echo in the hearts of those lucky to have known her. Barbara Jean Bullard will be greatly missed.
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