Obituary of Barbara Dean Jimenez
Barbara “Barb” Dean Jimenez, age 87, of Rockdale, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 28, 2022 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Barb was born on July 14, 1935 to the late Walter and Ethel Parker in Paulton, IL where she was raised and was a graduate of Crab Orchard Community High School.
Barb was married to her beloved soul mate and best friend of 59 years, the late James (Jim) Jimenez. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and was more than happy to be the central figure in the lives of her family. Anyone who knew her knew that her family was her passion and they are all that mattered to her. Barb was brave, beautiful and strong. Her faith and passion in the Lord was strong and she carried that faith with her every day of her life even through her final days. Barb touched many people in her life and those that were touched by her will carry her spirit forever.
Barb leaves behind her beloved children, Cindy (Pete) Medina, Robert (Kathy) Jimenez, and David (Kari) Jimenez. She was the proud grandmother “Nam” of Susan (Chuck) Storm, Bobby Jimenez, Lauren Medina, Peter Medina, Lindsey (Marcelo) Torres, Josh Jimenez and Isabel Jimenez; and the devoted great-grandmother of nine. Also surviving are Joe (Katherine) Parton and Gene (Anna Mae) Parton who were like siblings to Barb. Barb also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. She cherished her extended family and enjoyed being with them over the years. Barb also leaves her beloved pet, Molly.
In addition to her husband and parents, Barb is also preceded in death by her brothers, Glenn Parker, Joe (late Adris) Parker and sisters, Shirley (nee Parker) Parton and Margie (nee Parker) Howe. She was also preceded in death by Terry (Roberta) Parton, Patty (late John) Galik and Jewell (late Bernie) Chance, who were like siblings to Barb.
Visitation for Barb Jimenez will be held Wednesday, August 31, 2022 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet. Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 1, 2022 at 10:30 a.m., at the funeral home. Interment will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.
Donations in Barb’s name can be made to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness of Joliet (www.lightways.org) or Autism Speaks of Chicago (www.autismspeaks.org).
For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
