Barbara Ann Kelly-Thompson, 59, of Buncombe, IL, formerly of Benton, IL, born September 24, 1954, in Benton; beloved mother and grandmother left this life peacefully Sunday, September 14, 2014, at her residence. Barbara was a free spirit with a gentle kindness and warmth of soul that reached every heart she touched. Though she will be dearly missed by her loved ones, they find comfort in knowing she has been welcomed in Heaven by her parents, Bill and Erma Kelly, who precede her in death. She was a 1971 graduate of Benton Consolidated High School. She studied at both Rend Lake College and Southern Illinois University receiving an associate degree in operating room technology. Throughout her life Barbara had many passions. She was an avid reader, and general lover of the arts. From musical theatre to Bette Davis movies. A lifelong Beatles, Bob Dylan and Elton John fan. Barbs love for music carried over into her own accomplished piano playing, which she immersed herself in, whether playing by herself or before an audience. In 2007, Barbara contracted and beat breast cancer. She was very supportive for the cause afterwards. She loved nature, tending to her sunflowers and she never came across an animal she wouldn't take care of or take in if needed, as with her kitten Gizmo, who misses her mom too. Her family finds comfort-knowing Gods smiling upon her now. She will always be remembered for her beautiful and loving generous nature. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 Surviving are her five children, Dorian Bearden of Marion, IL, John Kelly Atkinson of Johnston City, IL, Claire Knight of West Frankfort, IL, Ana Knight of Marion, IL, and Jacob Knight of Marion, IL, three beautiful granddaughters, Layne Bearden, Brenia and Kamera Smith, a sister, Linda Mednick of Benton, IL, niece and nephew, Lauren Amberger of Benton, IL, and Nick Amberger of West Frankfort, IL, an uncle, Dean Kelly of Benton, IL, and several cousins and other family members in the surrounding area. She is preceded in death by her parents, and husband, John Richard Atkinson. "Though I know I'll never lose affection for people, and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more. In my life, I love you more." -The Beatles Memorial contributions may be made to Hobbs Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in care of funeral expenses. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 20, 2014, at Hobbs Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory, Benton, IL. A memorial service will follow visitation at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 20, 2014, at the funeral home with the Rev. Mark Minor officiating.
