Barbara Jean Stricklin, formerly of Ridgway

Barbara Jean Stricklin, 80, of Gibson City passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, in Gibson City with family by her side.

Barbara spent much of her life in Ridgway, where she taught for over 30 years at Ridgway and then Gallatin County. She cherished the opportunity to impact young lives and took immense pride over the years in seeing her students succeed.

She graduated from Ridgway High School and then attended Illinois State University, where she made lifelong friends. Barbara was a talker and delighted in making total strangers’ day by finding something positive to share with them. She enjoyed countless hobbies and participating in various organizations.

In her final years, her greatest love was having her adorable Shih Tzu, Ivy, by her side.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Cyndi (David) Punke, and her brother Allen (Beverly) Stricklin.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Stricklin; mother Imogene Dowmen; brother Terry Stricklin and husband Burnette Rodgers.

Private graveside services will be held at Ditney Ridge Cemetery, Norris City. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be made in Barbara’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.