SPRINGFIELD – Barbara Joan Beard, 77, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023, at St. John's Hospital.

She was born August 11, 1945, to Edward and Gladys (Atkinson) Kaiser. She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Joe Weinheoft, Richard Weinheoft, James Weinheoft, Edwards "Moe" Kaiser and Larry Kaiser.

Barbara was employed by Regency as the head cook. She enjoyed canning and cooking for others. She loved watching game shows, especially America Says. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Angela (Timothy) Melton, Cheryl (Greg) Vespa and William (Jolene) Lucasey; several grandchildren, including Megan, Kendra, Curtis, Aaron and Julia; several great-grandchildren, including Cortaiveion, Cedtreze, Dacorion, Meh'Kyia, Eric, Hazel, DJ, Scarlett, Henry, James and Natalie; siblings, William Kaiser, Patricia Meiron, Jacquelyn DiBartolomeo and Michael Kaiser; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m., Friday, February 17, 2023, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home, with Pastor Larry Hanson officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family of Barbara Beard c/o Angela and Tim Melton.