Barbara Jean Cooney, a beloved figure known for her kindness and dedication to family, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, at CHI Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa. Born on February 11, 1935, on a farm in western Adams County, Barbara lived a vibrant life rooted deeply in community and family.

After graduating from Corning High School in December of 1952, Barbara married her devoted husband, Kennard Dean Cooney, on December 27, 1952, at the Corning United Methodist Church. Together, they celebrated a remarkable 72 years of marriage, creating countless cherished memories filled with love and laughter.

Her career began as a secretary for the Adams County Extension Service, but after the joyful arrival of her children, Barbara embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom. She later returned to secretarial work, becoming one of the pioneering secretaries for the National Farmers Organization, where she contributed her skills for 17 years. Barbara spent her final years in the workforce at the Adams County Public Health Agency, retiring in 1994.

Barbara's warm spirit extended beyond her professional life. She was renowned in her community for her generosity, spending endless hours volunteering and helping with baking efforts, particularly with her famed gooseberry pies, for local dinners and fundraisers in Carbon. Her passion for community was palpable as she contributed many hours helping to make the delicious pies and other menu items for the Coal Miners Reunions and the Carbon Community Center, where her efforts were always gratefully received.

In leisure, Barbara found joy in camping, traveling, and square dancing in her younger years. She loved to crochet, creating many beautiful afghans that likely serve as a warm reminder of her loving touch. Barbara and Kennard were dedicated supporters of their children's and grandchildren's school activities, always cheering from the sidelines and making every event special.

Barbara leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Kennard Cooney of Corning, Iowa; her twin children, Lori Steinbach of Des Moines, Iowa, and Larry Cooney of Corning, Iowa; her daughter, Debra (Roy) McKay of Ames, Iowa; and her eight grandchildren: August, Sean, Julie, Jennifer, Michaela, Bradley, Jordan, and Tauri, along with 13 great-grandchildren. She is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends who were touched by her kindness.

Barbara is preceded in death by her grandson, Matthew Steinbach; son-in-law, Patrick Steinbach; her parents, Walter and Ethel (Page) Selders; and many siblings, including four brothers, a half-brother, one sister, and four half-sisters, as well as her in-laws, Wesley and Pauline Cooney.

An open visitation to honor her memory will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center in Corning. The family will receive friends from 4-6 PM. A funeral service celebrating Barbara's extraordinary life will take place on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the same location, officiated by Mr. Larry Johnson. Barbara will be laid to rest in the Oakland Cemetery at Quincy following the funeral service. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carbon Community Center and/or the Carbon Community Church.

Barbara Jean Cooney will forever be remembered for her gentle heart, beautifully dressed presence, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.