Barbara E (Beck) MacMurdo

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara "Barbie" MacMurdo, beloved mother of Brian (Becca) MacMurdo, Christopher (Charis) MacMurdo and Jon MacMurdo.  Barbara was born on July 4, 1954, in Springfield, IL to Burl and Gordie "Ellen" (Dambacher) Beck.  She married John MacMurdo in 1975 and she dedicated her life to raising her children and being a wonderful homemaker and caretaker to all, putting the well-being of others before her own. 

She took care of many children in her home over the years and she and her husband were known as Barbie & Daddy John.  When her children were in school, she was very involved with children's school activities at William Henry Harrison.

Barbara's passion for serving extended beyond her family to the community, where she was actively involved in the Parent Teacher Association, band activities, and hosting countless gatherings for teenagers. Her culinary skills were renowned, with her Mac n Cheese, stuffed peppers, and Chinese salad being among the favorites at every gathering.

Her best title of all was "Grandma" to her cherished grandchildren: Ben, Molly, Will, Fletcher, Tanner, Finnley, & Trace. She loved making her special Mac n Cheese for them and just being there when they needed something.  

Barbara is also survived by her brother David (Dana) Beck and sister-in-law: Judy (Lee) Dodd.  

A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held at Harrison Ave. Assembly of God Church, 949 Harrison Ave., on July 6,  2024 from 1:00 pm until the time of the Memorial service at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent directly to either Christ’s Loving Hands at https://www.christslovinghands.org/ or Pathways To Home at http://www.pathwaysharrison.com/

Barbara's kindness, compassion, and selflessness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of love and service lives on in the hearts of those she touched.