Barbara L. Willis-Prater age 77, of Quincy died on Friday, December 29, 2023, in Good Samaritan Home.

Barb was born in Decatur, Il on January 1, 1946, a daughter of Charles and Harriet (Moore) Rhoades.
She married Dean Willis on March 5, 1966, at Whitehall United Methodist Church in Whitehall IL. Dean preceded her in death on June 25, 2000.
She married Steve Prater on June 10, 2010, at Vermont Street United Methodist Church and he survives.

Professionally, Barb was an executive secretary for Famous Barr Co. in St. Louis until 1995 when she retired to tend to the farm her and Dean built together.

She was a graduate of North Greene High School in Whitehall. Barb was of the Methodist faith and had volunteered with Young Life serving as a mentor.

Barb was an avid reader, quilter, sewing enthusiast and doll collector. Above all Barb loved her family and will be remembered for her generous nature and the fun filled gatherings and holiday celebrations that she and Dean hosted at the family farm. She also enjoyed traveling and playing cards. Additionally she mastered the wooden spoon and would deploy it with pin point accuracy!

Survivors include her two sons, Jeffrey D. Willis and his wife Ruth of Quincy and Jeremy P. Willis and his wife Carie of MT. Juliet, TN.
Grandchildren: Julian Willis, Piper Willis and Macalister Willis.

Sisters and brothers, Christine Ittenbach, Ellen Lally, Marty Rhoades, Arlana Bross and Warren Rhoades. Nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dean Willis and a brother Steve Rhoades.

Barbara’s life will be celebrated with family and friends on Jan 5th 6-8pm at BoodaLu Steakhouse in Quincy. Interment will be at a later date in Kingston Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Young Life or a Charity of the Donor’s Choice.
Service arrangements are in the care of Duker & Haugh Funeral Home.