Barbara Bigelow

Barbara L. Bigelow, 82, of Vandalia, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at her home, surrounded by family.
Per Barbara's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A Private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to an Animal Shelter or other organization of their choice. Online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com.
Barbara Louise Barrett was born on January 17, 1943 in Gideon, MO, one of eleven children born to Butler and Maudy (Welch) Barrett.
She married the love of her life, Brian Bigelow, on November 02, 1963. Together they had three children and enjoyed 62 wonderful years together.
Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, and a dedicated homemaker. She enjoyed browsing shops, yard sales and flea markets for items to put in her store, Old Capitol Antiques, from 1992 until 2009.
She cherished all animals, but always had a special spot for her dogs throughout the years. She usually had one or two pups on her lap while she watched the birds at the feeders outside her window.
She enjoyed mowing many acres of grass on their farm with her zero-turn, cooking, and gardening. She always loved sharing vegetables from their garden and helping others.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Brian Bigelow of Vandalia; son, Randal Bigelow of San Diego, CA; daughter, Ginny (Bigelow) Ross of Mesa, AZ; son, Timothy Bigelow of Vandalia, IL; grandchildren, William Porter, Melissa Winiger and husband Kevin, Haley Bowen and husband Eli, and Liam Bigelow; great-grandchildren, Mason Porter and Benjamin Bowen; a nearby niece, Linda Pollock of Brownstown, IL and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Gestle Green, Elvis Barrett, Bivian Barrett, Nelda Thompson, Wanda Campbell, Marie Halbert, Ovilla Muller, Cleatus Barrett, Estle Barrett and Brenda Garcia.