Mary Alice Niles Barnhill, 70 years old, of Kenosha, WI, passed away Saturday, April 12, 2025, at her home after a courageous journey with cancer.
Mary was born September 3, 1954, in Minnesota, the daughter of the late J. Kenneth and Theresa E. (Kuznia) Dufault. She was raised in the farming community in Argyle, MN. After graduation, Mary attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks where she met and married James Barnhill IV. They made their home in Kenosha, WI in 1976. After retirement, Mary lived in Islamorada, FL, for several years before returning to Kenosha in 2019.
Mary is survived by her daughters, Maria Barnhill and Christina Barnhill; grandchildren, Mia Barnhill and James “JC” Barnhill VI; siblings, Robert (Lana) Dufault, James (Sue) Dufault, and Diane (Rick) Kruger; and by her special godchildren (near and far), and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her former husband, James Barnhill IV; son, James “Opie” Barnhill V; brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Dallas Dufault; brother-in-law, Mark Bittner; her very dear friend (a sister in spirit) Sharon Martinelli; and her great first love, Larry Rapacz.
Mary worked as a CNA at Brookside Care Center in Kenosha where she provided loving care to many residents for over 30 years, while also developing lifelong friendships with her coworkers. Upon returning to Kenosha, she enjoyed getting together with her former coworkers monthly. These friendships and gatherings gave Mary much pleasure, laughter, and joy. Mary was known for her green thumb; successfully tended many, many, many plants. Mary loved her life in Kenosha, enjoying its open market, lakefront walks, and especially the many corner saloons with live blues music where her heart would sing, and she could dance.
Mary’s smile could light up a room, but she will be remembered most for her caring and loving spirit. Mary was always willing to lend a hand, an ear, money, or food to anyone in need. She was a devoted and faithful Christian, always praying for others, even when she needed prayers herself.
Mary’s greatest joy, and now her legacy, are her two grandchildren James “JC” and Mia, who have been her inspiration of resilience and grace while she battled cancer. Mary watched over Mia for many years as Christina worked in Florida. Upon Mary’s return to Kenosha, she adopted JC after her son’s unexpected passing. Mary became the place for JC and his friends to “hang out” and eat her scrumptious homecooked meals. JC’s close friends also became her pride and joy.
A very special thank you goes out to all who helped Mary in this journey, from doctors, to hospice, to friends, and family, especially her sister Diane and brother-in-law Rick.
Memorial visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Proko Funeral Home, with a Celebration of Life commencing at 10:00 a.m. After the Celebration of Life, Mary and her son James “Opie” will be interred together in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha. Luncheon will be served after interment at Villa de Carlo for those attending the Celebration of Life.
