Barbara J. Ehley

Barbara J. Ehley, 72, of North Pekin, IL, passed away at 9:58 pm on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at her residence.

She was born on February 12, 1954, in Milwaukee, WI, to Charlie and Muriel (Kenney) Pelant.

Surviving are her children, Matthew Ehley of North Pekin, IL, Christopher (Jackie) Ehley of Chicago, IL, and Max Ehley of Germantown Hills, IL; grandchildren, Braylinn Ehley, Chance Ehley, Charlie Ehley, and Lorelei Ehley; siblings, Mike (Jill) Pelant, Nancy (Randy) Baures, and the late Bill (Karen) Pelant all of Milwaukee, WI; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Bill Pelant.

Barb was loved by many in the community, as she was a bus driver for the Germantown Hills School for many years, as well as a manager at the Germantown Grille at their old location and the liquor store.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother who touched so many people’s lives in and out of the community. Anyone who met her instantly bonded with her.

She liked to travel, but more importantly, she loved the ocean, being outside, and working in the yard. Her sense of humor, determination, drive, and strength made her who she was. Family was always her number one thing in her heart. She will be deeply missed.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Mason Funeral Home Germantown Hills Chapel. Visitation will be held from 11:30 am until 1:00 pm, also on Saturday at the funeral home. Following her service, please join us at Embassy Suites in East Peoria for appetizers and drinks, starting at 2:00 pm in the Grand View Room. Food will start around 3:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.