Barbara N. Sisky

Barbara N. Sisky, age 87, of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on April 30, 2026. She was born on October 2, 1938, to Roy and Gladys (Slaton) McClusky. Barbara is survived by her siblings: Mary Turner, Gary McCluskey, and Toby McClusky. Her children: Karen (Greg) Cowger of Carriermills Illinois; Janet Crews of Omaha, Illinois; Kevin Sisky of Michigan; Kim Thompson of Harrisburg, Illinois; and Johnny (Becky) Sisky of Oregon. Her grandchildren: Richard (Brittany) Cooper of Browns, Illinois; Crystal (Brian) Ellinghausen of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; Tiffany Hayes of Carrier Mills, Illinois; Amber (Josh) Gibbs of Washington, Indiana; Melissa (John Curtis) Thompson of Ledford, Illinois; Hannah (Noah) Tippy of Harrisburg, Illinois; Kevin Sisky of Michigan; and Nick Cowger of Carrier Mills, Illinois. Barbara is further survived by her great-grandchildren: Shelby Gallamore; Alexis and Mackenzie Smith; Jonathan Williams; Elizabeth and Zayla Hayes; Jordan Curtis; Emmett Tippy; Krista Cowger; Kaylee, Rylee, Cori, and Tynzlee Cooper; Maysa Moore; and Brevin and Blaize Oxford; Paislee Cowger as well as 13 great-great-grandchildren. Barbara was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose love for her family was the center of her life. She found her greatest joy in raising her children and surrounding herself with those she loved. Known for her warm heart and quick sense of humor (you know what this means), Barbara had a special gift for making everyone around her laugh. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of home to all who knew her. Her children and grandchildren especially cherished her gift for storytelling. Barbara had a way of bringing stories to life that captured their hearts and imaginations, and they loved gathering around to listen to her. She carried a beautiful, childlike spirit that stayed with her throughout her life, allowing her to connect deeply with her grandchildren. She spent some of her very best days making them laugh, sharing joy, and creating memories they will hold onto forever. She spent part of her working years at John’s Cafe, where she was known for her kindness and strong work ethic. But more than anything, Barbara devoted her life to caring for her family and creating a loving home. Barbara was strong in her faith and carried her love for the Lord throughout her life. She shared that faith with her children and grandchildren, often telling them stories and passing down wisdom that will continue to live on through them. She was a lifelong coffee drinker, always ready with a warm cup and an open heart, welcoming conversation and connection with those around her. Barbara’s love for family reflected the words of scripture she held dear: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Peter 4:8. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Brenda Hefner, Betty Riley, Bob and Chuck McClusky. grandchild Cody Cowger and great-great-grandchild Greyson Brown. She will be remembered as a beautiful soul, a loving mother and grandmother, and a woman whose strength, faith, and laughter touched many lives. A private service will be held at a later date. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com