Racine – Patricia Jean (nee: Bilyard) Barnes, 58, beloved wife of Dale Barnes, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, September 20, 2009, comforted by the presence of her family.

Pat was born in Kankakee, IL on January 29, 1951 to the late Al and Wilma Jo (nee: Ohmes) Bilyard. She attended Illinois Wesleyan University and graduated with her nursing degree from Olivet Nazarene College. Pat went on to receive her Master's in Nursing from Texas Women's University.

In 1980, she married the love of her life, Dale Barnes. For the past 20 years, they have lived in Racine. Pat worked as a part-time nurse at Wheaton Franciscan-St. Mary's Medical Center. But her passion was for teaching, and she shared her talents as a nursing instructor at Gateway Technical College-Kenosha for the past 19 years.

Pat enjoyed reading, spring flowers, summer breezes, fall leaves, winter snow, and being with friends. Above all, she loved her family and treasured all the times spent together.

Surviving are her husband of almost 29 years, Dale Barnes of Racine; their son, Matthew D. Barnes of Nashville, TN; sister, Sharon (Deacon Patrick) Skelly; and brother, Michael (Nancy) Bilyard, both of Bourbonnais, IL; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many, many friends too numerous to mention by name. In accordance with Pat's wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial service will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at 4:00 pm with Deacon Patrick Skelly officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Saturday from 2-4 pm. Services will also take place in Pat's hometown in Illinois on Sunday and Monday. In memory of Pat, memorials may be made out to the family's wishes.

A very special thanks to Dr. Michael Mullane, his wonderful staff, and all those who gave Pat such compassionate care. Also, to Pat's peers and friends from the Gateway Nursing Program for their concern and many acts of kindness during her journey with cancer. May God bless all of you!