Barbara Jean Prendergast

Barbara Jean Prendergast, 93, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, education, and joyful living.

Barbara was born January 22, 1933 to John and Margaret (Lilly) Prendergast in Des Moines, Iowa. A proud graduate of St. Joseph Academy, Barbara answered a higher calling immediately upon graduation, entering the Dominican order. She devoted twenty years to teaching in parochial schools in Wyoming and New York, shaping young minds with patience, discipline, and compassion. After retiring from the convent, Barbara continued her commitment to education as an elementary school teacher and administrator with the Waukegan Illinois School District, where she served faithfully until her retirement in 1993.

Barbara embraced life with enthusiasm and good humor. She was an avid golfer and a true ringer in water volleyball, surprising many with her competitive spirit. At Grand Living Tower Place, she loved gathering with friends for lively games of Rummikub and spirited rounds of Bingo. Evenings often found her enjoying reruns of Murder, She Wrote. She also was a voracious reader who never passed up a good book.

Barbara is survived by her “sister” soulmate and life-long friend, Maureen Schmit; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy. Her steady faith, sharp mind, and playful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and five beloved siblings: Eloise Rudisin, Paul Prendergast, Patricia Overton Prendergast, John Prendergast and Mary Ellen Swift. She carried their memory with her throughout her long and meaningful life.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Grand Living who cared for Barb over the last 3 years. We are thankful to Affinity Hospice Care for their support.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at the Basilica of St. John Catholic Church, 1915 University Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa with visitation from 9-10 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Catholic Charities, 721 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, Illinois in loving memory of Barbara.

Condolences can be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Barb’s life was one of devotion—to her faith, to education, to family, and to friendship—and she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and quiet determination.

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