Barbara Ann Whaley

REFLECTIONS: Barbara Ann Torpea Knowles Whaley “Williams” age 79 of Belleville, IL, Born Oct. 27, 1946, in St. Louis MO., died Wednesday April 1, 2026 in Millstadt, IL at her and her daughter’s residence of the last 3 years. She passed peacefully at home surrounded by close family after a long battle of health issues leading to hospice care.

Barbara Whaley retired from SIUE Head Start. She loved her job dearly. She went to national Louis University and received her Bachelors and Masters Degree’s. Barbara was going back to work to be a coordinator for her own center with the Head Start Program. Physical health issues stood in the way and she was forced to retire earlier than expected. Barbara was very active throughout her life. She played several instruments and give and taught lessons! She played for several sports teams, women slow pitch softball, as well as league bowling for 40 plus years of her life getting a “Turkey” just about every night. Even placing first place numerous times with various dancing partners in ballroom dancing! Barbara did and was a part of so many hobbies and accomplishments throughout her life, to many to name just a few!!

Barbara Ann was a strong determined women, she fought hard her entire life. No matter what obstacles she faced, she fought with her entire heart and soul. She walked every step with God beside her on her journey to her last breath; knowing God was present every step of the way!

Barbara Ann was an amazing strong women, Mother, Grandmother, Nana, Sister, Aunt, Wife, Step mother, Mother-in-law, friend and adopted mom to so many. Barbara opened her arms to the world but most of all to GOD. She will be deeply missed, cherished, and loved by the ones who loved her dearly.

Barbara Was proceeded in death by her maternal grandparents: Henry D. and Florence Hattie (York) Cashion. Parents: Father Frank Paul Torpea, Sr. Mother: Delores Mae Cashion Knowles Scoot. Brother: Frank Paul Torpea, Jr. Sister: Janet Torpea Gill Doran Nieces: Nicole Torpea and Lisa Kibler “Torpea.” Son: Harold Cedrick Knowles III First Husband: Harold C. Knowles, JR. Last Husband: Milton Alex “Rocky” Williams and her heavenly grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Barbara is survived by her daughters Kymberly R. Williams Henderson of Millstadt, IL, and Angela M. Knowles York “Jones” of Belleville, IL. Brother: Michael (Toni) A. Torpea. Nieces Jennifer Hernandez Torpea. And Kendra Gill Nephews: Michael (Mary) Torpea, Jr. and many Step siblings. Her Precious Grandchildren: Rockella A Pannell Williams, Daniel M. Jones Jr., Dakota (Jamie) Wise, Greg (Nikki) Budde, Carla (Mike) Knowles, Cody (Paul) Knowles and many beautiful great grandchildren and step children. Also adopted children and great nieces and nephews.