Elaine Geraldine Barry

Elaine Geraldine Barry (nee Smyth), 95, of Oak Lawn, IL, passed away on March 18, 2026, surrounded by family.

Born in Chicago, IL, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Myrtle Smyth (nee Cullen) and was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Barry; her children, James Barry and Patricia Rocco (Jerry); and her sisters, Kay Dodd and Eileen Hansen (Elaine's twin). Elaine is survived by three of her children, Catherine Ipema (Harry), Kevin Barry (Mary), and Sally DeGiacomo (William), and her sister and best friend, Patricia (Edwin) Harmening. She also is survived by her 11 grandchildren, Kristen, Jim (Christine) and Kerry Ipema; Colleen (John), Annie (Ron), Michael (Val) and Molly (Dan) Barry; Kim and Sam DeGiacomo; Becky Gilman (Steven) and Charlie Rocco; along with six great grandchildren, Liam, Jack and Tommy Ipema; Lainey and Macie Curin; and Maddie Gilman as well as her many nieces and nephews.

Devoted to her family and resilient in life, Elaine was one in a million and adored by her family and countless friends. She was a talented artist who took great joy in completing her kids' and grandkids' art projects; was incredibly resourceful, believing if there is a will there is a way; and was a true perfectionist. She had an uncanny ability to find humor in every situation life presents – both good times and bad. Those who spent any time with her will recall the countless idioms she would use: "a busy girl is a good girl," "no news is good news," or "it's a brave new world." Always a spitfire, when told to have a good day, she'd reply "don't tell me what to do!" Elaine graduated from the Academy of Our Lady (Longwood) and Mundelein College. Elaine, "see you later alligator," you will be dearly missed. We will always hear your reply, "after a while crocodile."

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, in memory of her daughter, Patty.

Visitation 9 am until time of Funeral Service, 11 am, on Saturday, March 21, at Hallowell and James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55 th St., Countryside, followed by Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip. Additional Information: 708-352-6500