Barbara J. Werne, 92, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Stearns Nursing and Rehabilitation in Granite City.
She was born April 5, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, a daughter of the late John and Edith Nagel. Barbara married the love of her life, Leo B. Werne, in July 1984 in Bradenton, Florida, and he survives.
Barbara retired on June 1, 1996, from TNT Holland Truck Lines after many years of dedicated service as an office clerk. She was a devoted and faithful member of Our Lord’s Lutheran Church in Maryville, where her quiet faith was an important part of her life.
She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—sewing, crocheting, and spending time on the golf course. She was a longtime member of TOPS and had a special fondness for butterflies, which reflected her gentle and kind spirit. Above all, Barbara cherished children and treasured every moment spent with her family. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the love she shared so freely.
In addition to her beloved husband, she is survived by her loving family: two daughters, Charlene (Pat D’Arco) Jones of West Palm Beach, Florida and Karen Behlman of St. Charles, Missouri; a stepdaughter, Kathy (Bill) Gilbert of St. Louis, Missouri; six grandchildren, Samantha (Dan) Heath, Elizabeth Behlman, Christina (Michael) Evetts, Nicole Locke, Alissa (Chris) Simpson, and Casey (Rachel) Gilbert; seven great-grandchildren; a brother, John Nagel of Chicago; a nephew, Steve (Lisa) Nagel of Chicago; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Joy Nix; stepson, Leo Werne IV; son-in-law, Gregory Behlman and a sister-in-law, Phyllis Nagel.
In celebration of her life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, with Pastor Stephanie Doeschot officiating. Burial will follow at St. John Cemetery in Granite City.
Memorials may be made to VITAS Hospice. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
