Barbara was born October 15, 1938 in Kewanee, the daughter of Harley and Ardis (Howlett) Reider. When she first graduated high school, she worked for Eclipse Lawnmower, the Camera Center and Buckmeir Motors. She was a Member of the Lady of the Elks and was nominated and awarded Lady Elk of the Sterling, Rock Falls Elk Lodge District.

She married Donald R. Nelms on July 15, 1961 in Prophetstown.

Survivors include her husband, Donald of Rock Falls; and one brother-in-law Lyle (Patricia) Nelms of Annawan.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at Schilling Funeral Home and Cremation, in Sterling with Reverend Wesley Dickson, pastor, of Wesley United Methodist Church, Sterling, officiating. Visitation will be from 10-11 AM Wednesday, prior to services at the funeral home. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown.

A memorial has been established.

Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com.