Barbara A. McGurk

November 19, 1937 - June 9, 2021

Age 83, of South Wilmington, IL passed away peacefully with her family by her side, Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at her home. Born November 19, 1937 in South Wilmington, IL to the late Henry and Alice (nee Ulbrich) Smolik. In her early twenties, Barbara worked for the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant in Wilmington, IL. She then drove a school bus for many years for the South Wilmington Grade School. For over fifty years she served as the South Wilmington Village Clerk and was a member of the United Methodist Church. Barb was an amazing homemaker and always put her family first, and one thing you could guarantee was coming home to the best homemade meal put together by mom. Her greatest joys in life were her grandsons, Brock and Brandon. She attended all their events, but her most favorite was watching them play basketball. Barb became a great-grandmother and seeing her little babies Otto and Allie made her life complete. For many summers, Barb enjoyed fishing at numerous lakes with her late husband. She was a devoted fan of Elvis and one of the highlights in her life was traveling to Memphis to experience the life and legacy of the iconic singer. Barb also enjoyed her many shopping and lunch trips with her wonderful friend, Gerry Residori. Barb was a staple in the community, she was a proud resident that would volunteer her time in any way she could. She did everything for anyone and never expected anything back. She dedicated many hours advocating to re-build what is known as the South Wilmington VFW Park today. Barb will be remembered for her kindness, attentiveness, and most of all her gentle heart. It has been said that South Wilmington lost a legend and for many, she was considered the First Lady of South Wilmington. Surviving are one son, Scott (fiance, Laura Residori) McGurk of South Wilmington; two daughters, Beth (Bill) Bomba of South Wilmington and their children, Keith Bomba and his son, Lukas and Craig Bomba and his sons, Blayne and Landon; and Julie (George) Riggi of Gardner, IL; two grandchildren, Brock (Felicia) Riggi and Brandon Riggi; and two great-grandchildren, Otto and Allie Riggi. Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Donald Anthony McGurk (2001), whom she married August 6, 1955 in South Wilmington; and son, Steven McGurk (1988). Private services will be held for the family. Interment will be in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery, Braceville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the family would be appreciated, for they will make a donation in her name to the South Wilmington VFW Park. For more information and to visit her online guestbook, please log on to www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com or find us on Facebook.