Barbara A James

BARBARA A. JAMES, 71, of Red Bud, Illinois, passed away at 8:28 pm, Sunday, May 11, 2025, at her residence.

She was born to the late George and Zelma (nee Blechle) Elder on June 21, 1953, in Belleville, Illinois.

Barbara married Paul Omer James on February 20, 1993, in Maeystown, Illinois; he preceded her in death on August 1, 2021.

She had worked as a legal secretary for over 25 years.

An annual member of the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri, she found immense joy in the beauty of nature. Barbara loved the moon and the peace that it brought her. She enjoyed watching all the parades throughout the years with her grandchildren.

Barbara had a special love for cooking and baking Christmas cookies to share with her family.

Survivors:

3 Children:

   Lisa (Chris) Burton Waterloo, IL

   Emily (Josh) Miller Waterloo, IL

   Eric (Heather) Jost Belleville, IL

3 Brothers:

   Rich (Toni) Elder Freeburg, IL

   Bob (Cindy) Elder Columbia, IL

   Jim (Karen) Elder Columbia, IL

1 Sister:

   Mary (Sam) Parker Greenbrier, AR

5 Grandchildren:

   Ella & Tessa Burton, Emma Horn, and Aiden & Noah Jost

Many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Friends

Preceded in death by: Parents, Husband, and 5 Brothers - Don Elder, Danny Elder, Steve Elder, Jerry Elder, and Paul Elder

It was Barbara's wish to be cremated.