Dick Durbin: “southern Illinois lost a legend and one of its brightest lights. Last week, Barbara Brown passed away at the age of 61.…”

“southern Illinois lost a legend and one of its brightest lights. Last week, Barbara Brown passed away at the age of 61. Barbara was blessed with every God-given gift one could ask for: intelligence, strength, compassion, kindness--just to name a few. She had it all. She was a remarkable woman who wore many hats during her political career: vice-chair of the Democratic Party of Illinois, precinct committeewoman, chairwoman of the Randolph County Democratic Central Committee, and treasurer for the Pierre Menard Democrat Club. She also helped found and lead the Southwestern Illinois Democratic Women and the Southern Illinois Democratic Women, two grassroots organizations working toward a more equitable representation of women in all levels of government. Barbara Brown was an exceptional leader. Born in Red Bud, IL, Barbara spent her life working for the people of southern Illinois. In 1985, she earned her doctorate from Southern Illinois University, at Carbondale, and a love for teaching. Barbara taught political science at SIU for more than 30 years. And when she made a commitment to something, she saw it through. Barbara began playing the organ when she was 14 years old at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Ellis Grove. She became a lifelong parishioner and continued playing the organ for more than 40 years. The highlights of her life were her family. She and her husband, Dick, had three sons: Jay, Matt, and Nate.…”