Barbara "Barb" Blakey's Obituary
Barbara Louise (Long) Blakey passed away peacefully on July 6, 2024 at St. Joh’s Hospital in Springfield IL.
She was born October 24, 1957, in Decatur, IL to Ashley and Mabel (Williams) Long. She grew up on the family farm near Mt. Auburn, IL and graduated from Mt. Auburn High School in 1975. She furthered her education at Lincoln Land Community College, graduating in 1977, then from Eastern Illinois University in 1979 with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation.
Barb worked for several years with the Decatur Park District as Supervisor of Therapeutic Recreation and as Area Director for Special Olympics before joining DOVE, Inc. In 1994. She served in many capacities at DOVE, retiring in April of this year as Director of Volunteers and Community Relations. Barb worked behind the scenes with many of DOVE’s missions, but her pet project was the annual coat drive. Through her efforts, many children had a warmer winter than they would have, thanks to the coat drive.
Beyond her work in the community, Barb served several church congregations in any capacities of leadership from Sunday School teacher to serving on the music board. She enriched the congregation she served with steadfast dedication and an eye for detail.
On June 24, 1989, Barb married Doug Blakey. They had two sons, Adam (Jade) and Phillip. She also is survived by her granddaughter, June Margaret; sister, Jane Long and brother, Mike Long. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Karen Montgomery and Susan Tracy.
Services to celebrate Barb’s life will be held at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home in Decatur on Wednesday, July 17 at 12pm with visitation prior to the service from 10am to 12pm. Burial will be set upon a later date.
In Lieu of flowers, donations to honor Barb’s memory can be directed to DOVE, Inc. 302 South Union St. Decatur IL 62522
Condolences can be left for Barb’s family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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