She was born in Springfield on February 21, 1943, the daughter of Harold E. and Mary C. (Barregarye) McAvoy. Barbara married Robert Wheatley in Springfield on August 22, 1964.
Barbara graduated from Springfield High School with the class of 1961, received her RN license from St. John’s School of Nursing in 1964, and later earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Sangamon State in 1980. She worked as a registered nurse at St. John’s NICU for 40 years. Barbara was a devoted member of St. Louise de Marillac, St. John’s Retirees, and Christ the King Catholic Church. She shared her faith and compassion through her service as a Samaritan at St. John’s, a volunteer with Street Ministry, and as a “cuddler” at St. John’s NICU.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and son, Brian Wheatley.
Barbara is survived by her husband, Robert; sons, Jeffrey, and Stephen (Shannon) Wheatley; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Wheatley; grandchildren, Austin (Holly), Dylan, Madelyn, and Brooke; great-granddaughter, Quinn Marie; and sister, Judith Eisenhut.
Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield, starting with a prayer service at 3:45 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial: 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield, with Fr. Joe Molloy officiating.
Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Hospital’s NICU, St. Aloysius Catholic School, or Christ the King Catholic School.
Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.
