Jeffrey "Jeff" L. Barber

Jeffrey “Jeff” L. Barber, 72, of Moline, IL, passed away, May 7, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Trinity Rock Island.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Esterdahl Mortuary and Crematory, Ltd., Moline. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Midwest Affiliate.

Jeff was born on August 3, 1953, in Rock Island, IL, the son of Willis Barber and Beverly (Colleen) Wilson. He married Joann DeMarlie in East Moline, IL on October 21, 1972. Jeff worked as a spot welder for John Deere until his retirement in 2007. Jeff enjoyed playing golf, softball, and especially playing cards with his grandkids. He enjoyed his breakfast club friends and his class of ‘71 Lunch buddies. Jeff was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. He also loved going to his grandkid’s sporting events. Jeff was well known for his sense of humor, and his favorite title was being known as ‘Papa’.

Survivors include his wife, Joann; children, Nick (Jamie) Barber, Tracy (Jason) Gedye, Leann (Eric) Schieber; grandchildren, Jackson, Lola, Mallory, Dylan, Jordan, Kellsie (Tyler), Kaile, Kera; siblings, Cathy (Jim) Libey, Lorie (Randy) Bostic, Joe (Tony) Barber; 2 nieces and 2 nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.