Gwendolyn Barbagiovanni, 87, of Burlington, Iowa, died at her residence on Monday afternoon September 29, 2025.
Born on April 5, 1938, in Stronghurst, Illinois, she was the daughter of Cleophus Charles Corley Sr. and Alice (Hoyak) Corley.
Gwen was a graduate of Burlington High School. On February 6, 1981, at St. Paul Catholic Church, she married Santo L. “Sam” Barbagiovanni. He preceded her in death on January 21, 2015.
Gwen was a homemaker, a member of Divine Mercy Parish, and a past board member of The Salvation Army. She also enjoyed cross-stitching, reading (including history books), and crossword puzzles.
Survivors include; two daughters, Lana (Dr. Timothy) Anderson of Bristol, TN, and Susan Haynes of Burlington, Iowa, one son, R.K. “Kirk” Lucas of Lafayette, Ind.; twelve grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and her loving cat Simba.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Karen Waldrop, two son-in-law’s, George Haynes and James Waldrop, great-grandson Tatum Ross, five sisters, and two brothers.
A special thank you to Sister Peggy Duffy, Sister Kathy Braun. Another special thank you to Susan Haynes, Brian Ross, and Julie Lucas, who were her caregivers for her in the last few years of her life, allowing her to stay in her home.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church of Divine Mercy Parish with Father Jacob Greiner as the Celebrant. Interment will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
A memorial has been established for the Divine Mercy Parish.