Barbara Alice Thomas

Obituary:
Barbara Alice Thomas Barbara Alice Thomas, 90, of Springfield, passed away peacefully Monday, December 1, 2025.
Barbara was the firstborn of Fern and William Davidsmeier in Mechanicsburg, IL on July 13, 1935. She was predeceased by her daughter, Karen Elaine Thomas, sisters: Shirley Elizabeth Black (Robert), Doris "Midgie", brothers: Orville, Wilbur Russel (Sara Kathryn), Donald and Willis Davidsmeier (Patricia) as well as nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her husband, James A. Thomas, daughters, Catherine Longkumer (Taku) and Laura Marlow (Scott); grandchildren, Meren Longkumer, Lima Longkumer (Asen), Senti (Zack) Longkumer and Cordelia Marlow; one great grandson, Liam Longkumer, and brother Kenneth Davidsmeier.
Barbara was a courageous woman with a creative spirit and strong determination to do what was necessary to care for her family. She was a pioneer in the field of computer programing, being among the first few women employed as such in Springfield. Initially working at Ben Franklin Insurance then Marine Bank before programing for the State of Illinois Department of Personnel.
Even as a working mother Barbara found outlets for her creativity through a variety of painting mediums, creating exquisite scenes on delicate hollowed eggshells and onyx eggs, as well as lovely landscapes on canvas and velvet. Throughout her life, Barbara was an avid reader and had a very inquisitive, sharp mind which she exercised with her love of puzzles, particularly cryptograms and crosswords. Among her hobbies was sewing dolls and toys for her children, nephews, nieces and grandchildren. She also enjoyed spending time in the woods camping with her husband and traveling internationally. She readily opened home and heart to family and her children's friends with gracious and generous hospitality. She volunteered for many years at Ridgely Elementary School and delivering Meals on Wheels.
Her courage, enabling her to forge through difficulties, open-mindedness and creativity along with her generous spirit has been and will continue to be an inspiration.
Cremation are accorded by Springfield Crematory.