Dear North Lawndale Community,

It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to the Deer Family and to the entire North Lawndale Community.

Our friend and neighbor Barbara Deer was a devoted advocate, a committed community organizer, and a compassionate, gentle soul. Her bright smile inspired hope and brought warmth into every space she entered. Barbara represented the very best of North Lawndale. Barbara, along with her late husband Dennis, committed their lives to service and uplifting others.

Barbara stood alongside her husband Dennis, a founding member of the North Lawndale Community Coordinating Council and a lifelong advocate of social justice.

From the earliest days of building our award-winning Quality of Life Plan, Barbara was there every step of the way, supporting the work and encouraging those around her. She believed deeply in our community all that it is and will be. Barbara could always be found at community events, often with Kaleb, Kaneen, and Trinity in tow. Her proudest accomplishments were her children.

We also lift up and remember Kaleb, whose life was deeply connected to Barbara’s love, care, and commitment to family and community. Together, their loss is felt across North Lawndale, and we hold them both close in our hearts.

We all carry things others may not see, and it matters that we check in, listen, and make space for support. In moments like this, we are reminded to care for our own mental health and to look out for one another. We need to stay connected, extend grace, and remind each other that no one has to go through anything alone.

We are keeping their family lifted in love and support. And as a community, we will keep moving forward, carrying the same care and commitment Barbara showed us every day.

Their light lives on in all of us and will continue to illuminate our path forward.

North Lawndale Community Coordinating Council