Carolyn Evans Barris

Carolyn was born on September 29, 1942, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Curtiss and Vaudeth Campbell Evans. She married R. Gerald Barris “Jerry” on May 17, 1964, in Springfield, IL; he preceded her in death on November 27, 2017.

Carolyn graduated from Springfield High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from MacMurry College in Jacksonville, IL. She was the president of the Junior League of Springfield, chairperson for the Festival of Trees, and a member of the Friends of Memorial and Senior Services boards.

Carolyn’s greatest joy came from spending time with family in the lovely home that she built with her late husband, Jerry, and cultivating the gardens around the home that they created together. She was enormously proud of and adored her two grandchildren and loved every moment spent in their company. Over the years, Carolyn was committed to giving her time and service to many non-profit organizations. She was passionate about staying abreast of current events and politics, and this passion was only exceeded by her commitment to solving the daily Wordle puzzle. She was an avid lover of nature and all creatures great and small. Carolyn also enjoyed trips to Michigan, reading, studying new recipes, and cooking extraordinary meals. She was grateful for the love and support from family and friends in more challenging times. She was often heard to say, “I am so lucky to have such a wonderful family”.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lawrence and Phil Evans; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Evans.

Carolyn is survived by her son, Andrew (wife, Anna Margaret) Barris of Springfield; daughter, Anneliese (husband, Joseph) Fierstos of Springfield; grandchildren, Nathaniel and Abigail Fierstos; brother-in-law, William Barris; sister-in law, Ann Evans; nieces and nephews, Debbie Evans (husband, Dan) Throckmorton, Elizabeth “Libby” Evans (husband, John) Arthur, Erin Evans (husband, Kelly) Weller, Jeff (wife, Julie) Evans, Sean (wife, Kanda) Evans, and Steve Evans; beloved dog, Daisy; and parrot, Kevin.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Ceremony and Gathering: A Memorial Ceremony will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Family will receive friends following the ceremony from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Burial will be held at a later date at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Nature Conservancy (nature.org/bequestgift), Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702, or the Central Illinois Food Bank.