Barbara J Greenwood

Barbara “Barbie” J. Greenwood, 80, of Dixon, Illinois, formerly of Franklin Grove, IL, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025. Barbie was born to Charles and Marjorie Katona on August 16, 1945, in Hammond, Indiana. She grew up in Teft, Indiana, where she also graduated high school. On October 5, 1991, Barbie married the love of her life, Homer Greenwood, in Rockford. They were married for 34 years before his passing earlier this year. Barbie recently celebrated her 80th birthday in August, and it meant the world to her to have her children, Erin, Dennis “Butch”, and Denise by her side.

Barbie retired from Chrysler and went on to become a lunch aid at AFC High School, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Barbie was a phenomenal cook, with her signature dish being fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, and fresh corn cut off the cob, which happened to be Homer’s favorite. Barbie had beautiful and elaborate taste, which made her home very warm and welcoming. She always looked forward to decorating her house, whether it was for an upcoming holiday or just because. During Christmas time Barbie was known for her homemade cookies and Holiday Glug. Her yard was just as welcoming, as she took special care of her various flower gardens. Barbie loved to go out dancing and shooting pool with Homer. Barbie had a great sense of humor, as well as her children, who often placed bets on who would push her buttons first. She enjoyed spending time with them with a nice screwdriver with a heavy pour. In more recent years, she enjoyed PBR, White Russians, Bailey’s in a warm cup of coffee, or a nice glass of Christian Brothers brandy.

Barbie is survived by her children, Denise (Mike) Hysmith, Dennis “Butch” (Corrina) Milbrandt, Erin June, Stephen Greenwood, Bonnie (Lisa Nyen) Greenwood, Christopher (Lance Mitchell) Greenwood, Matthew (Shelley) Greenwood; grandchildren, Cody, Michael, Dominic, Mason, Riley, Austin, Rachel, Dane, Colby, Shanda, and Kaitlund; great-grandchildren, Vivian, Colson and Lennox; siblings Jack (Dona) Katona, Donna Morgan, and Marcia Krug; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, twin brother Robert Katona; brother-in-law, Paul Krug; son-in-law, Larry June.

Cremation has taken place per Barbie’s wishes, and a celebration of life will be announced for her and Homer in the spring.