Barbara (Hamilton) Braner ’60 of Beardstown, Illinois, died Jan. 20, 2022. She was 80. Barb studied music education at Illinois Wesleyan and went on to a teaching career in schools in Chandlerville and Concord, Illinois, and at White Sands New Mexico Military School, before a 25-year tenure in the Beardstown school district. Among her proudest teaching moments were helping students qualify for state competitions and earn accolades for chorus performances. Barb served as president of the Illinois District for Music Educators and served on the Illinois Elementary School Board Association. Barb was a charter member and held many roles in Beardstown Emblem Club #474. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Beardstown, where she played the organ and served as choir director. She liked golfing and reading, and was a fan of University of Illinois athletics and St. Louis Cardinals. She enjoyed time spent with family, connecting with former students, and making new friends. She is survived by a brother, two nieces, a nephew, and many extended family members.