Barbara L. Mathiot Zuspann

Barb was born on December 6, 1942 in Forreston, IL, the daughter of Martin and Elvera Abels DeVries. She married Tim Mathiot on November 3, 1962; he preceded her in death on November 25, 1985 from a massive heart attack at the age of 44. She then married Jerry Zuspann on March 3, 1990; he preceded her in death on June 25, 2020. She was also preceded in death by her parents and daughter-in-law, Caroline Mathiot.

Barbara grew up in the small town of Harper with a population of 29 people. She was a 1961 graduate of Forreston High School. Barbara moved to Springfield in December of 1974. She was a self-employed hairdresser for over 35 years. Barbara enjoyed connecting all the dots of her life by spending time with friends, both old and new. She was a member of, and extremely involved in activities at, First United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her sons, Brian Mathiot of Springfield and Mike “Murph” (wife, Jennifer) Mathiot of Springfield; two step-children, David (wife, Staci) Zuspann of Alto, MI and Jeff (wife, Julie) Zuspann of Middleton, DE; four grandchildren, Josh, Emma, T.J. and McKenna Mathiot; six step-grandchildren, Ashley (husband, Joey) Salamone, Jack, Michael (wife, Sarah), Alexa, Brianna, and Trent Zuspann; and four great-grandchildren, Olivia, Bennett, and Camden Salamone, and Noah Zuspann.

Due to the current COVID-19 mitigation restrictions, a public visitation and ceremony is not possible for Barb at this time; therefore, only a private family ceremony will be held. A public celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at a future date to be announced. Private burial will take place at Forreston Grove Cemetery in Forreston, IL. For this wishing to view ceremonies virtually, you may do so by visiting here.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 2941 South Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, IL 62711.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.