Barbara Jean Samson was born August 16, 1934 to parents James Francis Samson and Sarah Beulah Minor Samson in Tolono, IL. Barbara Jean passed away on July 25, 2026 at the age of 91 years in Niagara Falls, NY. She had made her home in North Tonawanda, NY for many years.

Barbara Jean was blessed with five children. Those who survive her are, David Peddycoart, Richard (Judy) Peddycoart and Mark (Kristy) Peddycoart. Barbara Jean was predeceased by her parents and two daughters, infant daughter Diane Lynne Peddycoart and Gina Lucia Balsamo. Barbara Jean had eleven grandchildren, twenty four great grandchildren and seventeen great great grandchildren.

Barbara Jean was also predeceased by three brothers; infant brother James Warren Samson, Frank “Izzy” Samson, Maron Keith Samson and two sisters, Dorothy Samson Reed and Patricia Samson Compton. She had many many nieces and nephews.

Barbara Jean attended Amherst Baptist Church in Amherst, New York where she introduced her youngest son, Mark to his future wife, Kristy. Through Amherst Baptist Church, Barbara Jean hosted Korean students. Her favorite bible verse was John 3:16. Barbara Jean was especially fond of the Christmas season.

Barbara Jean was known to be very protective, strong-willed and devoted. Barbara Jean was a devoted loving mother and grandmother. Although miles apart, when together it was like those miles did not exist. Barbara Jean was an amazing seamstress. She made numerous pieces of Barbie doll clothing that she gifted to her nieces, friends and family. Barbara Jean was also known for making her famous divinity and 7-up salad. Barbara Jean’s favorite foods were Kentucky Fried Chicken, Snickers bars, and good old Pepsi, the real Pepsi, with sugar. She also loved the television program “The Golden Girls”.

Memorials may be given to The Giving Place, PO Box 610, Tolono, IL. The Giving Place is a food and clothing pantry formed by The Tolono United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 29th at the Tolono United Methodist Church, 301 N. Bourne St., Tolono, IL with services beginning at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kenny Young officiating. Burial will follow at Bailey Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the Tolono United Methodist Church following the burial.