Mildred “Millie” L. Barry — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Mildred “Millie” L. Barry, 75, of Quincy, passed away at 1:44 am Sunday, November 3, 2024, at her home in Quincy, IL.
Millie was born March 25, 1949, in Quincy, IL to Al and Marie (Ott) Meissen.
Millie was married to Jerry Barry for 11 years before they parted ways. Jerry preceded her in death in September of 2005. The legacy of their union lived on through their two children, Doug Barry of Nashville, TN, and Nikki Doyle (Dan) of Tilden, IL. Millie’s joy multiplied with the birth of her three grandchildren, Miranda, Zach, and Katey Doyle, and later, her two great-grandchildren, Hayes and Jaxx Doyle. Her family circle included her caring brother, Larry Meissen (Judy). Millie was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband Jerry, and her sister, Virginia Stiern.
Millie’s early life in Quincy laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication and hard work. After graduating from Quincy Notre Dame in 1967, she began working at Underbrinks Bakery. Sometime later she worked for Broadway drapery, then transitioned to clothing alterations at Bergner’s, where she was known throughout the community. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to earn an associate’s degree in accounting from John Wood Community College in 2000, after which she served the college as an administrative assistant until her retirement in 2014. Millie’s commitment to her faith was evident through her long standing membership at The Crossing Church, where she found spiritual solace and fellowship.
Beyond her professional and spiritual life, Millie was a woman of diverse interests and talents. Her garden was a testament to her love for nature, blooming with exotic flowers that mirrored her own colorful spirit. A compassionate soul, she opened her heart and home to rescue and foster cats, often caring for several at a time. Her pet iguana, Izzy, became an ambassador for learning as she brought the reptile to elementary schools, educating children about these unique creatures. Her skill as a seamstress was unparalleled, a gift passed down from her great-great-grandfather, a tailor in Austria. Millie’s skilled sewing graced many family wardrobes and even the runways of Miami.
Millie’s zest for life was reflected in her love for muscle cars, with a particular fondness for her 1970 Buick Skylark. She found joy in simple pleasures, like feeding the geese at the bay or losing herself in the intricate Celtic patterns of adult coloring books. Her lime green kitchen, van, and even her socks were a bright expression of her favorite color. A great baker and an avid reader, Millie also had an ear for music, enjoying the sounds of Led Zeppelin, Funkadelic, Van Halen, and Jimi Hendrix. Her life motto, “do what your heart tells you to do,” was what she practiced every day.
Millie’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to living life to the fullest. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who knew her.
Friends and Family are invited to Millie’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Monday, November 11, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.
A Memorial Service will be at 3:00 pm Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Pastor Zach Campbell will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Quincy Humane Society.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.