Barbara White Howard

Barbara White Howard, lovingly known as "Barb", passed away on March 23, 2025 at 1:48 am. She was born in Harlem, New York, to Nathaniel and Alberta (Eichelberger) White and was raised in Peoria, Illinois.

Barbara graduated from Manual High School and later earned an Associate Degree in Fire Science from Illinois Central College. While working at Caterpillar, she was promoted to Fire Inspector after completing her degree. She dedicated over 30 years to the company as a Security and Fire Inspector.

Barbara married Charles Howard, and together they were blessed with seven children. She led a full and active life, balancing family, career, and a passion for sports. She enjoyed running, golf, tennis, and bowling, participating in leagues at Town and Country Bowling and Landmark. Barbara was also a member of the Peoria Motorcycle Club, where she raced motorcycles.

A faithful member of St. Paul Baptist Church since the late 1960's, Barbara sang in the choir for over 15 years and volunteered in the church kitchen. She was affectionately known as "The Donut Lady" for a period of time.

Above all, Barbara cherished her children and grandchildren. She hosted neighborhood back-to-school parties, bringing together family, friends, and community members. She never met a stranger and had a heart big enough to adopt many as her own. Barbara loved laughter, singing, and traveling, often driving from Peoria to South Carolina or Tennessee so her children could stay connected to their roots.

Barb's funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at St. Paul Baptist Church in Peoria. Pastor Deveraux Hubbard will officiate. Her visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am also on Wednesday at the church. Burial will take place in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to her church at https://spbaptist.org/give or the Loaves & Fish Ministry care of First United Methodist Church Peoria at https://fumcpeoria.org/loaves-and-fish

Online condolences may be shared with Barb's family at www.davison-fulton.com