Dolores Barney

Dolores Moreen Barney, beloved Epiphany member, known for her intelligence, humor, love of animals, and dedication to church, was called home by her Creator on September 3, 2025. She was born on March 20, 1943, in the city of Chicago, IL. Her spirit remains an indelible part of the lives she touched.
Dolores passed away peacefully in Bensenville, IL. Her journey through life was marked by the companionship of her beloved late husband, James Barney, whom she married on June 5, 1982. She was predeceased by her parents, Morse Spooner and Clara Conrad Spooner, as well as her sisters, Winifred Spooner and Yvonne Ullrich. Dolores's legacy continues through her nieces and nephews-Karen Ullrich, Kathy Ullrich Higham (and husband Ron), Dan Ullrich, Ruth Ullrich-and their children, as well as her cousin Donna Thomas (and husband Steve) with their two children, and cousin Robert Kuhn (and wife Katherine), and many others.
Dolores's love for learning led her to pursue an education in respiratory therapy, during two years of college. Her professional life was as varied as it was impactful, with roles that included pet store co-owner, professional interviewer, sales associate, phone sales expert, office procedures specialist, nurse aide, and respiratory therapist.
Dolores was an active member of Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Elmhurst, IL with participation in the Lydias group, the women's small group, and the Epiphany Players drama group which surfaced her strong talent for acting. She also worked in the church office, assisted in Vacation Bible School, attended Bible studies, and did quilting. In worship services she read Scripture, rang handbells, served as greeter and sang in the choir.
A lover of all God's creatures, she found special joy in the company of horses and cats. In her earlier years, her dedication to breeding Havana Brown cats was rewarded with the prestigious achievement of Grand Champion status, a testament to her commitment to excellence.
Dolores had a sense of humor that seemed to surface when most needed.
Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church, 314 W. Vallette St., Elmhurst, IL, www.EpiphanyElmhurst.org. Visitation will be from 9-10 a.m. and the service from 10-11 a.m. with Pastor Leland Albright officiating. Lunch will follow immediately after the funeral service in the Fellowship Hall in the lower level of the church. The funeral procession will leave for Acacia Park Cemetery, 7800 Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL, at 12 noon, and the interment service will be held at 1 p.m. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For info: 630-834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com.