Bernardo “Barney” Rios, age 89, of Granite City, IL, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at St. Louis University Hospital, St. Louis, MO. Barney was born on May 20, 1934 in Forth Worth, TX, a son of Manuel and Catalina (Ramirez) Rios.
Barney will be remembered as a devoted family man who never met a stranger. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. On April 23, 1955, Barney married Jean Olive Worley, and she passed away on January 29, 1964. After, Jean’s passing Barney took loving care of his five daughters by himself with the help of the Catholic Children’s Home in Alton, IL. Then on October 17, 1986, Barney married Rose Ann (Shambro) Kismer Richardson, and she passed away on February 8, 2014. Barney retired from the maintenance department at General Motors Corporation after many years of dedicated service. He was a faithful member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Granite City, IL. Barney enjoyed listening to classic country music and going to church to serve the Lord. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. Barney loved life, he loved to laugh, but most of all he loved his family. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his parents and wives, Barney was preceded in death by two daughters, Helen Gonzalez and Mary Jane Rios; four brothers, Jesse, Joe, Jack and Danny; and by his sister, Romona.
He is survived by his loving children, Victoria (Antonio) Jacinto of Irvington, IL, Katherine (Vidal) Guerrero of Glen Carbon, IL, Josephine Rios of Springfield, MO and Jean Marie Rios of Granite City, IL; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Irwin Chapel, Granite City, IL.
In celebration of his life, a funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Granite City, IL, with Father Stephen Thompson officiating. Barney will be laid to rest next to Jean at Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Memorial donations may be given to Holy Family Catholic Church or to Catholic Charities. Donations will be accepted at the funeral chapel or church.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
