April 2026
Barbara E. Morton passed away March 7, 2026.
Born on August 4, 1945, in Queens, New York, Barbara dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge and the
enhancement of others. After earning her undergraduate degree from Concordia University River Forest in 1967, Barbara taught at Redeemer Lutheran in Glendale, New York for 10 years and became the school’s principal. While she was teaching, she earned a master’s degree from St. John’s University in New York. She then moved on to Concordia University Austin where she became a professor and completed her doctorate at the University of Texas. Barbara then continued her career at Concordia University Irvine in 1995 where she served as a professor and dean. Barbara’s career in education spanned 45 years, impacting countless students across the country and inspiring all who knew her with her contagious love for life, unwavering dedication for the Great Commission, and tireless work ethic to serve the Lord with joy.
Known for personal qualities such as commitment, dedication, leadership, and volunteering, Barbara believed in the power of education to change lives. She was not only a teacher but also a mentor, advocate, and friend to many.
Following her retirement in 2012, Barbara developed a passion for volunteering. While still in California, she started a tutoring program that inspired countless children at the Village of Hope in the Orange County Rescue Mission. Shortly after moving in 2018 to Luther Village in Arlington Heights, Barbara began working with the Lutheran Home Auxiliary, where she became president. The mission of the Auxiliary is to enhance the lives of those living at Lutheran Home.
Barbara also helped the Lutheran Life Communities raise funds to help support residents who outlived their financial resources.
Barbara’s tireless efforts and dedication to helping others was recognized in 2024 with an Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (Chicago chapter).
Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, James and Martha Morton. She is survived by her sister, Alice Matthias (Jim), nieces Jessica Lukes (Keith) and Brittany Cusack (Kelly), and nephews Benjamin and Tyler Lukes, and nieces Breanna Lukes, Caleigh and Morgan Cusack, and Godchild Anna Scott.
Visitation was held on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at The Lutheran Home in Arlington Heights, IL. Visitation and a funeral service were held Monday, March 23, 2026 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights
Memorial gifts may be made to The Lutheran Home.
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