Barbara Elaine (Isenburg) Earnest, 81, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away on Sunday, September 29th, 2024, at the Villas of Hollybrook, in Mount Carmel, Illinois. She was born on May 7, 1943, in Effingham, Illinois, the daughter of Leland and Virginia (Fritschle) Isenburg. She married Neil Earnest on February 24, 1963, and they enjoyed sixty-one years of marriage until his passing on March 31, 2024.
Together with her husband, Neil, Barbara passionately owned and operated a Hardee’s restaurant and catering business in Mount Carmel, making a lasting impact on the community. Barbara’s dedication to Mount Carmel extended beyond their business. She was an active member of Parkview Christian Church and generously served numerous civic organizations within Wabash County alongside Neil. Her love for her community was evident through her actions and the countless lives she touched.
Affectionately known as “Ma,” Barbara’s greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether cheering from a bench or a folding chair at their sporting events, listening to them play music, or attending their many activities, Ma was always present, with her lifelong companion, “Pa” (Neil), faithfully by her side. Their home was a sanctuary, a place where family could always find comfort, love, and, of course, a “healthy” snack. Conversations around the kitchen table or on the screened-in porch were cherished moments, full of warmth and laughter.
Barbara’s legacy of love, service, and family will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.
Barbara is survived by her brother, Jerry Isenburg, and wife, Sue, of Springfield, IL; her son, Todd Earnest, and wife, Elizabeth, of Mount Carmel, IL; her daughters, Telisa Laws of Mount Carmel, IL, and Teresa Brown and husband, Bill, of Mokena, IL; she also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, Shealey Greathouse (Laws), Levi Laws, Natalie Laws, Elliott Laws, Elijah Laws, Luke Laws, Sarah Laws, Tyler Brown, Connor Brown, McKenzye Earnest, Lillyianne Earnest, Vivianne Earnest, Skyler Pritchett, Kamden Pritchett, and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Neil, Barbara was preceded in death by her parents.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Parkview Christian Church.
Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Parkview Christian Church with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Barbara will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Neil.
Memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s memory to Parkview Christian Church or Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Barbara’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Earnest family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
