Barbara L. Carney, 89, of Port Charlotte, Florida, formerly of Rochester, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at South Port Square Senior Living in Port Charlotte.

Barbara was born on December 12, 1936, in Springfield, Massachusetts, the daughter of Russell and Louise (Morgan) Mills. She graduated from Palmer High School in Palmer, Massachusetts, in 1953. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Massachusetts and went on to receive her master’s degree in Education from the University of Illinois Springfield.

Barbara was a teacher for Rochester School District, where she inspired sixth and eighth students to learn math for over 25 years. She inspired students to learn and understand math by using real world examples, which one year culminated in being awarded the Golden Apple for being an outstanding teacher. She was also involved in many local issues, including construction of the bike path in Rochester.

Barbara married Donald Carney in Chicago, Illinois, in 1961. He preceded her in death on January 1, 2004. They have two children, Brett (Dianne) Carney of Punta Gorda, Florida and Scott (Renee) Carney of Charleston, South Carolina; and three beautiful grandchildren, Alexandra (Fort Collins, CO), Annah (Springfield, IL), and Anya (Denver, CO).

Barbara enjoyed spending time with family, traveling, reading, and gardening among many other things. Recognizing the value of family, she led a number of “SKI” (Spending Kids Inheritance) trips, choosing to bring her family together in beautiful and distant settings. Whether white water rafting in Alaska, bareboat sailing in the islands, or zip-lining in Kauai, she was always ready to go.

Barbara is survived by her two sons, Brett and Scott; her three grandchildren, Alexandra, Annah, and Anya; half-brother Richard Petersen (Donna), and step-sister Patricia Petersen (Herb).

She was preceded in death by her parents (Russell and Louise); her husband, Donald; her brother, Russell Mills, and step-sisters Corinne (Petersen) Trevallion and Sivia Petersen. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Wilson Park Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St., Rochester, Illinois, on October 8, 2026 from 4:00-6:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Greater Springfield Alzheimer’s Association.