Barbara A. Martin

Barbara A. Martin, 78, of Edwards, Illinois, passed away at 12:13 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Manor Court of Peoria.

Born July 6, 1948, in Peoria to Roland and Hollis (Render) Cantrall, she married Larry Martin. After Larry’s death in 2021, Barbara returned to the Peoria area and spent her final years in the home of her son Bill, where they shared a close and meaningful bond.

She is survived by her son, Bill (Marcia) Kelch of Edwards; grandchildren Ashley (Billy) Eichhorn, Rachael (Johnny) Bartel, Joshua (Emma) Kelch, Jackie Rae (Alex Hamilton) Kelch, and Garrett Kelch; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Larry Martin, daughter Becky Kelch, brother Tom Cantrall, and sister Nancy Smith.

Barbara was a devoted mother to Bill and Becky. For many years she served as secretary to Joe Stieglitz and the children and families of Germantown Hills Grade School. She and Larry later retired to Arizona, where she enjoyed travel and fashion. She loved her family and friends and had a kindness to helping her family, friends, and community.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Monte Cristo room at Michael’s in Germantown Hills. Please join us for her favorite meal of spaghetti and share stories of Barb’s life. Online condolences may be left at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.