Sara C. Barber

Our loving mother, Sara C. Barber, 89 (nee Canaday) passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at the Luther Home in Arlington Heights, Il. A private Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

Sara was born September 27, 1935, to Raymond and Elizabeth Canaday and grew up in Park Ridge Illinois. Sara graduated from Maine East High School in 1953 and attended the University of Illinois before marrying her high school sweetheart Raymond J Barber. They began their life together, first moving to Ohio where son Scott was born and then onto Indiana where daughter, Susan was born. After several more moves, they settled down calling Palatine Illinois, their home.

Sara was preceded in death by her dear parents, Raymond and Elizabeth (nee Case) Canaday; Uncle and aunt Wilbert and Winifred (nee Case) Seidel; her loving husband, Raymond J Barber; brother, Steven Canaday survived by (wife) Mary Elizabeth Canaday; and sister, Susan (nee Canaday) Sieben.

Sara is survived by her devoted children, Scott Barber (Michele), and Susan (nee Barber) Zelgart (David); along with four loving grandsons; Tyler, Ryan, Chris and Daniel (Lauren). Sara is also survived by cousins, Mark and Renata Seidel; niece’s Ashley Canaday; Cathy (nee Canaday) Frost (Adam).

Her highest priority was her never-ending love and the health and wellbeing of her family. She was an incredible caregiver for her husband during his battle with kidney disease that took his life at the early age of 47. Sara was the heartbeat of the family, providing unconditional love, guidance and encouragement to all. She was extremely proud and actively involved in her grandson’s lives. They each adored her and will be forever grateful for her enduring love and influence.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her care team at Lutheran Home. Specifically, those who brought her laughter and joy daily. We will be forever grateful.

Memorials to a charity of your choice, are greatly appreciated.