Barbara J. Brannan, 72, passed away on July 20, 2020, in Geneva, Illinois. She was born in Bryan, Ohio, on Feb. 26, 1948, to Paul and Vivian (Casebere) Brannan.
Barbara graduated from Bryan High School in 1966 and attended Ohio University for two years. Throughout her career in Chicago, she completed her B.A. at Mundelein College of Loyola University and went on to earn a M.A. from Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago.
An accomplished writer and presenter, her work encompassed areas of marketing and publishing. Barbara devoted much of her career to helping adult employees embrace and master new skills.
She spent the last 11 years working for Metra Chicago Railroad, developing training materials and teaching employees at all levels. She loved her work and sought to help others see the world in a positive light.
An obsessive improver, Barbara developed DIY skills in home renovation, with emphasis on a beautifully functional kitchen, a cultivated garden and eclectic decor. She sought perfection in a recipe and shared her appreciation for antiques, the arts and literature.
She was active in acting and directing community theater. She embraced life’s changes by rising to its challenges.
Barbara’s bright spirit is held close by her brother, Larry (Nancy Skinner) Brannan, niece Brigette Winniman, nephews Andy Kelly and John Skinner, cousins on both the Brannan and Casebere sides, and precious lifelong friends.
Please share your memories of Barb and find details for a memorial service online at yursfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society or to Williams County Community Theater, 208 W. Butler St., Bryan, OH 43506.
