Barbara M. Eberly

Barbara M. Eberly, 86, of Oblong, passed away at 3:38 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Crawford Memorial Hospital in Robinson, Illinois.
Barbara was born on February 27, 1939, in Pinkstaff, Illinois, a daughter of Lyman O. Stevenson and Thelma June Earnst Stevenson. She married William R. "Bill" Eberly on May 8, 1960, at Pleasant Ridge Christian Church in Pinkstaff. Bill survives at their home in Oblong.
Also surviving are her children, Steven (Kathy) Eberly of Livingston, Texas, and Diann (Keith) Bomer of Oblong; four grandchildren, Bruce (Michele) Eberly-Macolburn of Franklinton, North Carolina, Benjamin Bomer of Oblong, Kara (Aaron) Kurtz of Newton, and Trish (A.J.) Martin of St. Joseph, Illinois; six great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Harry (Barbara) Stevenson of Milano, Texas; along with several nieces and nephews and her beloved "puppy dogs." She was preceded in death by her parents.
Barbara was a 1957 graduate of Lawrenceville High School. Throughout her life, she held many positions and was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. She worked as a secretary at Brookside Elementary School, Cochran Insurance in Lawrenceville, and Richard Williams Insurance in Charleston, Illinois. She also worked at Peoples Bank in Lawrenceville, served as a phlebotomist at Lawrenceville Hospital, and was an aide to Dr. Hardeman at Eastern Illinois University. She was the greeter at Lydia's Closet in Oblong where she dearly loved all who came in. In addition, Barbara taught sign language and devoted many years as a 4-H leader, generously sharing her time and talents with others.
Barbara was a faithful member of the First Christian Church in Oblong. She led Ladies Luv Lessons and belonged to Priscilla Circle. She was originally a member of Pleasant Ridge Christian Church where she taught Sunday School, ladies Bible study, signed for the deaf, and led the youth group for many years; and she was also a member of Central Christian Church in Charleston, IL.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the First Christian Church in Oblong, with Dee Wolfe officiating. Interment will follow at Crest Haven Memorial Park in Claremont. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lydia's Closet, 707 E. Wisconsin St., Oblong, IL 62449; Pinehaven Christian Ranch, 64657 S. Pine Haven Ln., St. Ignatius, MT 59865; Deaf Missions, 21199 Greenpine Rd., Council Bluffs, IA 51503, or at deafmissions.com; or to a Christian Church of the donor's choice.
Pulliam Funeral Home, 302 E. Main St., Oblong, IL 62449, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.