Phyllis Catherine Barnes

Phyllis Catherine Barnes, age 99, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Plymouth, Indiana. Born on August 13, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of William “Bill” Sylvester Klos and Catherine Gertrude (Ryan) Klos.

A devoted mother and wife, Phyllis married her childhood sweetheart, Joseph Francis Barnes, Jr., on April 24, 1948, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Chicago. Together, they embraced the joys and challenges of life, exemplifying the beauty of true love until Joseph’s passing in 1996.Phyllis found solace in her creative pursuits, particularly quilting and sewing. She crafted beautiful pieces that will forever be cherished by her family, including over 400 blue jean quilts made with love for homeless shelters, reflecting her deeply compassionate spirit. An enthusiastic puzzler, she also enjoyed crossword and jigsaw puzzles, while her adventurous side led her to tent camping and birdwatching in her youth.

A strong advocate for community involvement, Phyllis dedicated her time to the Girl Scouts in the Chicagoland area, serving as a trainer and troop leader. During World War II, she volunteered with the Red Cross, tirelessly making bandages for those in need. She also spent several years volunteering at the Leydig Center in Dixon. Her quiet acts of kindness and generosity shone through in every role she undertook.

Phyllis is survived by her loving children: James (Annette) Barnes of Geneva, IL, Joseph (Rita) Barnes III of Plymouth, IN, Judy (Neal) Malouf of Littleton, CO, Mary (Sam) Castoria of Bryan, TX, and Margaret “Peggy” Jones of Winston-Salem, NC. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Francis Barnes, Jr.; her parents, William “Bill” Sylvester and Catherine; and her brother, William Klos.

Visitation will be held from 5-7PM CST on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at Jones Funeral Home, 204 S. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL 61021. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30AM CST on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 612 Highland Ave, Dixon, IL 61021.

Phyllis will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Dixon, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to KSB Hospital, 403 E 1st Street, Dixon, IL 61021.