Barbara was born and raised in Chicago, where she lived until 1995. She attended St. Andrew Lutheran School for elementary school and graduated from Luther South High School in 1960. Her Christian faith was an important part of her life. She was baptized, confirmed and married at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Chicago, where she remained a longtime member until joining Palos Lutheran Church.
Barbara was married to Peter L. Cronin on November 8, 1975, and shared many wonderful years together. Throughout her life, Barbara enjoyed traveling and loved the opportunity to visit new places and create lasting memories. She also enjoyed going out to dinner with friends and family and loved throwing parties and celebrating special occasions.
Barbara was always thoughtful about remembering others, often giving gifts and sending handwritten notes and cards for birthdays and other special occasions. Barbara was a member of the Crazy Eights Club and the Red Hat Society, where she enjoyed the activities and friendships. Barbara had a lifelong love of music, especially Elvis Presley. During her years at Cedarhurst, she especially enjoyed the Eric Donner concerts and never wanted to miss hearing him perform some of her favorite songs.
Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Peter L. Cronin, and her parents, William and Yolanda Rhodes. She is survived by her brother, Chuck (Darlene) Rhodes; nieces and nephews Bill (Gill), Chuck (Liz), Cathy (Bill), and David; and many great-nieces and nephews.
Barbara will be remembered for her love of travel, music, entertaining, and the many memories she made throughout her life.
Visitation will be held at Chapel Hill Gardens South Funeral Home, 11333 South Central Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, US, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, followed by a Chapel Service. Burial is private.
