Barbara J. Rhatigan

Barbara J. Rhatigan, nee Marino, age 75, of Crete, IL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.  Beloved wife of James B. Rhatigan.  Loving mother of Anthony (Lauren) Rhatigan and Brian (Ann) Rhatigan.  Cherished grandmother of Alexander, Fitzgerald, and Jude. Dear sister of the late Paulette (late Michael) Gray.  Fond niece of Noel Laube (late David).  Adored by many sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends from around the country.  Preceded in death by her parents Anthony and Genevieve Marino.

Barb grew up in Bridgeview, IL and was a self-proclaimed tomboy who idolized her older sister Paulette.  She made friends for life during her childhood and teenage years.  At the age of 21, she met the love of her life, Jimmy, while working at a local diner.  Less than a year later, they were married, and remained so for nearly 53 years until her death.  They had two boys together, but if you ask Jimmy, she raised three boys, not two.

Barb spent her early adult years in various professions including waitressing, insurance, real estate, and mortgages.  She entered nursing school at the age of 42 after taking care of her ailing mother.  She graduated from Prairie State College in 1995 as a Registered Nurse.  She spent over 20 years caring for others and found her true calling supporting new mothers postpartum.  Her infectious smile, constant positivity, and knack for making everyone feel like family, made her unforgettable to her patients.

Barb absolutely adored her family and friends and cherished every moment spent together.  She treated everyone with kindness, curiosity, and respect.  She was a loyal advocate for animals and never turned away a stray.  She enjoyed nature, baking, crafting, karate, reading, all things science fiction, and was very active in the church.  She truly loved life and walked with God in her heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to be determined.  Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home in Dyer, IN.  Please visit our online guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com.

Barb was very grateful for the support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society during her cancer journey, and helping people was most important to her, even in her final days.  Please make a donation in her memory to the LLS at www.lls.org .

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.