Hon. Barry R. Anderson

The Honorable Barry R. Anderson, 81, of Freeport, IL passed away on April 15, 2026 from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, ending a life well lived. He was born in Chicago on June 11, 1944, to Vincent and Virginia Anderson. He graduated from Lane Tech High School in Chicago in 1962, where he was a star athlete, quarterbacking his football team to a City Championship. Barry continued his football career at Grinnell College in Grinnell, IA, majoring in history, graduating in 1966. He married Victoria Crandall in Afton, Iowa in 1967.

After college, Barry served as a patrolman and detective in the Chicago Police Department for seven years, while he also attended law school. After earning his JD degree from Loyola University of Chicago College of Law in 1973, Barry began his distinguished law career in Freeport, IL. He served as Assistant States Attorney for Stephenson County until 1977, when he joined Nettles & Mahoney Law firm as an associate and later a partner. In 1985 he was appointed Associate Circuit Judge of the 15th Judicial Circuit, and in 1996 he was appointed as Circuit Judge and then elected in 1998. He served in that roll until his retirement in 2004. He married Kay King in 1993 in Freeport.

Barry had an esteemed career as a judge, always exhibiting strong work ethic, sincere compassion, and an unwavering allegiance to the rule of law. He was a beloved colleague within the law community, and was the only candidate for judicial office in Illinois in 1998 to receive a 100% recommended rating by the Illinois Bar Association.

Barry enjoyed life tremendously. He played football, baseball, and basketball at many different levels throughout his life. He was an avid golfer, and took many trips with his golfing buddies to various golf courses throughout the country, always adding a pro sports game to their agenda just for fun. One highlight of his golfing life was to play at St. Andrews and Carnoustie courses in Scotland. Barry loved a party and was a great dancer. He was a devoted fan of jazz and blues music. Barry was highly regarded for his kindness and generosity throughout his life. He spent many winters at his Florida home on Anna Maria Island.

Barry was an avid traveler. His journeys took him to countries in Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and Africa, as well as Mexico, Canada, and nearly every state in the U.S.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents and wife Kay King Anderson. He is survived by son Vincent C. Anderson of Bluffton, SC; brother David Anderson and sister-in-law Sue Anderson of East Berlin, PA; grandsons Marco and Nathaniel Anderson of Bluffton, SC; nephew Robin Anderson, niece Tanya Martin, and significant other Kathleen Mikkelsen.

Visitation will take place on April 30, 2026, starting at 2:00 pm at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport, IL; memorial service at 3:30pm. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Barry’s life following the service at Freeport Club, 1614 S. Park Blvd, Freeport, IL.

The family would like to thank the compassionate caregivers at WinnPrairie, who cared for Barry so wonderfully during his last days. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial to be at Oakland Cemetery, Freeport, IL

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to send donations to The Boys & Girls Club of Freeport, The Salvation Army, or Voices of Stephenson County, IL.