Barbara “Barb” Williams, 89, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Northeast Regional Hospital in Kirksville. Born on August 16, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Emil and Gladys (Lowe) Eskra.

Barb’s life was one defined by a deep and abiding faith, a genuine love for others, and an unwavering devotion to her family. A 1955 graduate of Kirksville High School, she married her beloved husband, Francis Lloyd “Frank” Williams, on August 20 of that same year. Together, they shared more than 66 years of marriage, raising six children and creating a lifetime of memories before Frank’s passing in 2022.

For nearly 47 years, Barb extended the same love and compassion she gave her family to the residents of Twin Pines Nursing Home. Beginning in 1974, she worked as a medical technician, faithfully serving the 3:00 to 11:00 p.m. shift. To the many residents and families who came to know her, Barb was much more than a familiar face. She was a comforting presence, a gentle spirit, and someone who truly cared. Her dedication and kindness became part of her lasting legacy throughout the Kirksville community.

Barb’s Catholic faith was woven into every chapter of her life. Her devotion began in childhood, attending Croatian Altar Society meetings alongside her grandmother, and remained a source of strength and joy throughout her years. Whether attending Mass, spending time in weekly Eucharistic Adoration, or enjoying fellowship at Catholic Young at Heart gatherings, Barb found great meaning in her faith. Among her most treasured experiences was a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, along with a visit to her family’s ancestral homeland of Croatia.

While Barb enjoyed cooking, crafting, and traveling, nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by those she loved. Her family was her pride and joy, and her home was a place where everyone was welcome. Monday dinners became a beloved tradition, filling her house with children, grandchildren, good food, and the kind of laughter that turns ordinary evenings into cherished memories. For Barb, there was no greater blessing than having her family gathered around the table.

Those who knew Barb will remember her infectious smile, her gentle heart, and the generosity she shared so freely. She found beauty in life’s simplest pleasures and had a special way of making others feel cared for and loved. Through her faith, her years of service, and the family she so dearly cherished; Barb leaves behind a beautiful example of a life lived with purpose, kindness, and love.

Barb will be lovingly remembered by her children, Patrick (Lisa) Williams of Kirksville, Vickie (Rick) Torres of Kirksville, Danny (LaDonna) Williams of Kirksville, John (Kelly) Williams of Fernandina Beach, Florida, Joe Williams (Michael Jacobs) of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and Tim (Maria) Williams of Panama City, Florida; her 13 grandchildren, Kelli (Jesse) Cash, Rachel (Brian) Roettger, Lindsey Williams, Joseph Williams (Renee Crilly), Anthony (Mary) Sollars, Joseph Sollars, Katie (Luis) Mendez, Matt (Kristie) Williams, Chris (Tamisha) Williams, Nick (Chloe) Williams, Matt Williams, Luke Williams (Madison Griffith), and Shane (Sydney) Williams; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her twin brother, Frank (Joann) Eskra; niece, Patty Teague; and nephews, John (Sally) Williams, Mark (Sandy) Eskra, Todd (Muffet) Eskra, and Mark (Lisa) Davis.

In addition to her beloved husband, Frank, she was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Helen (Eskra) Russell; brother-in-law John J. Williams and sister-in-law, Barbara (Lipper) Williams.

In recognition of October as the Month of the Holy Rosary, a family-led public recitation of the Rosary will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Kirksville. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m., with the Rev. Joseph Luzindana officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home in Edina, MO.

Entombment will follow in the Good Shepherd Mausoleum at Park View Memorial Gardens in Kirksville. Her grandsons will serve as casket bearers, and her granddaughters will serve as honorary bearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, 716 E. Washington Street, Kirksville, MO 63501. Memorials may also be mailed to or left at the Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1, Edina, MO 63537.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the doctors, and nurses at Northeast Regional Hospital, and Compasses Hospice for the care and compassion provided our mother during her hospitalization.