Barbara S. Baker (Nee Mueggenburg), formerly of Highland, IL, passed away February 2, 2026 in Greenville, IL.
Barbara was born March 13, 1955, to John R. and Betty (nee Hensley) Mueggenburg in East St. Louis, IL. On June 22, 1985 she married Arlen L. (aka Cord) Baker in Highland, IL.
Barbara’s first career was as a manager at McDonald’s. She became a dedicated stay at home mom when her first daughter was born. Barbara was a talented graphic designer and did freelance design work for many companies and organizations through her small business, BusinesSidekicks. When her girls were grown up, Barbara worked at both the Highland Middle School library and Highland Hope Methodist Church doing various administrative functions. She excelled at anticipating the needs of others and making sure that everyone and everything was taken care of which made her an irreplaceable addition to these organizations. Barbara loved nothing more than a shopping trip with her girls and spending time with her grandchildren. She will always be remembered by her contagious smile that could light up a room.
She is survived by 2 daughters, Jamie (Douglas) Kuehl, Troy, IL, Kristi (Corey) Perigo, Pocahontas, IL; one stepdaughter, Dr. Audra (Dr. Derrick) Ward, Leawood, KS; 7 grandchildren, Chase Kuehl, Hayley Kuehl, Skylar Perigo, Addilynn Perigo, Crew Perigo, Barrett Ward, Quinn Ward.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staffs of All In 4 You Home Health Services, Stillwater Senior Living, Greenville Nursing and Rehab, and VITAS Hospice for all of their help and dedication to our family the last 9 years. Additionally the family would like to recognize both nurse Rachel from VITAS and Dr. Gus Davis of Washington University for their constant above and beyond support.
Memorials may be made to the Hope Center for Neurological Disorders at Washington University or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. No services are planned at this time.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2555 Vaughn Road, Wood River, IL 62095

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