Barbara “Barb” Jean Reeves 73, of Rochester, died at 1;59 am, Thursday, August 6, 2026, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital. She was born July 13, 1953, in Litchfield to Lester Pratt and Eleanora Sommerlad. She was later adopted by Kenneth “Rex” Cockerill. She married Joseph “Joe” Reeves, Jr. on November 8, 1969, and he survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Stacie Reeves of Rochester and Lisa Reeves of Springfield; five grandchildren Marissa Owens, Amanda Owens, Zabrina Price, Cyerra Price and Aryanna Price; six great-grandchildren, Brayden Cisco, Eva Carver, Anthony Owens, Isaiah Abbott, Vada Blakley and Carson Betz; one brother, Clay Cockerill of Lincolnton, NC; two sisters, Nancy (Mike) Baldock of Springfield and Dixie (Harry) Smedley of Florida and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Barb retired from the State of Illinois where she worked for thirty-five years as an Administrative Assistant for the Department of Human Services.
She was a member of The Elks Club. She enjoyed golfing and was very involved with her grandkids and great grandkids.
“She was one of the most genuine and friendly people that one could ever have had the privilege of knowing.” And “She was greatly loved by many, especially her family, and she adored all of them immensely.”
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
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