Barbara M. Hershey

Barbara M. Hershey, 87, of Springfield, died at 12:20 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Regency Care. Barbara was born October 6, 1930 in Pittsburgh, PA, the daughter of Charles A. and Ruth Wills McGahan. She married William "Bill" R. Hershey on August 15, 1953 in Pittsburgh, PA; he preceded her in death on May 8, 2015. Barbara graduated from Edgewood High School in 1948 and earned her bachelors degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1952. She was primarily a homemaker, but did teach third grade until having a family. Barbara was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ where she was a deaconess, a greeter, and active in the prayer groups. She had also been active with The Springfield Muni. Barbara enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family, crocheting, knitting, needlepoint, drawing, and completing crossword puzzles in ink. She was also preceded in death by her parents and brother, Charles McGahan. She is survived by her children, Rebecca "Becky" (Michael) Doerfler, Wendy (Phillip) Wilson, and Charles W. Hershey, all of Springfield; seven grandchildren, Christopher (Bridget) Doerfler, Bethany (Brian) Caton, James (Megan) Doerfler, Marisa (Blaine) Marty, Emmy (Jake) Klunick, Melanie (Joe) Wise, and Heather Wilson; ten great-grandchildren; sister, Margery Fleck of Oklahoma City, OK; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, May 10, 2018 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A memorial ceremony will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 2100 S. Bates, Springfield, IL 62704.