Published on March 2, 2026 1:30 pm
Last Updated on March 2, 2026 1:30 pm
Barbara Lynn Sims (Croft) joined her almighty Father on February 27, 2026.
Barb was born on July 22, 1961, the daughter of Alice Kroeger and Leland Croft, although she always considered her true father to be the Father in Heaven.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Effingham, IL. A 9:15 a.m. rosary will take place prior to visitation, which will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to the family in care of Russ Sims. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.
On November 14, 1986, she married the love of her life, Russell Sims. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and devotion. Barb loved to garden — as anyone who ever drove past her home could see. There was nothing she couldn’t grow, and whatever she planted seemed to flourish abundantly. Her garden reflected her spirit: vibrant, tenacious, and full of life. Her greatest comfort and strength was her relationship with God. Throughout nearly 30 years of medical treatments, Barb remained steadfast and bold in her Catholic faith. She openly shared the love and hope she had found, encouraging others with her strength, grace, and unwavering trust in the Lord.
Barb is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Russ Sims; her mother, Alice Kroeger; and her mother-in-law, Judith Sims. She leaves behind her cherished children: Kristin (Charlie) Workman, Cassandra (John) Kolek, Victoria (Trevor) Colclasure, and Travis (Cristina) Sims. She was a proud grandmother to Fletcher, Finley, and Frankie Workman; Theodore and Truman
Colclasure; and Aimee and Allison Chance. Nothing brought her more joy than her grandchildren. Barb is also survived by her siblings: Debbie Croft; Diane (Jeff) Having; Darlene (Larry) Logue; Dean (Becky) Croft; Don (Gwen) Croft; and David (Sandy) Croft; as well as her brother-in-law, Rick Sims. She had many beloved nieces and nephews, including Jeffrey Myers, of whom she was especially proud to serve as Godmother.
She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Wayne Sims; her sister-in-law, Debbie Sims; her father, Lee Croft; and her sister, Linda Croft.
Her family would like to extend their deepest thanks and appreciation to the team at Lakeland Nursing Home for their unwavering care for the last several years.