Barbara Deer Remembered as Community Leader After Tragic Killing

Barbara Deer, a North Lawndale native, advocate, and widow of late Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer, is being remembered this week as a devoted public servant and community figure following her killing earlier this month.

Deer, 51, was found fatally shot April 14 inside a home in the 3500 block of West Arthington Street, according to Chicago police. Her son, Kaleb Deer, 23, was also found dead inside the residence. Authorities have ruled the deaths a murder-suicide.

Though widely known as the partner of the late Commissioner Dennis Deer, who died in 2024, those close to her said she was a force in her own right, committed to health advocacy, social justice, and strengthening families across Chicago.

In the days following the tragedy, tributes poured in from elected officials, faith leaders, and residents across Chicago, many describing Deer as compassionate, welcoming, and deeply committed to others.

Chicago City Clerk Anna M. Valencia described Deer as someone whose work helped uplift communities across the city.

“The Deer family’s legacy is one of service, care, and an unwavering commitment to others,” Valencia said in a statement.

Mayor Brandon Johnson also reflected on the family’s impact, noting that Barbara and her husband “put their full hearts into reducing gun violence in their community.”

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Funeral Arrangements

Services for Barbara and Kaleb Deer will be held at United Baptist Church, 4242 W. Roosevelt Rd. in Austin.

Public Viewing

• Thursday, April 30, 3 to 7 p.m.

Celebration of Life

• Friday, May 1
• Visitation: 9 to 10 a.m.
• Homegoing Service: 10 a.m. to noon

Burial

• Friday, May 1, 2 to 2:30 p.m.
• Oak Ridge Cemetery, Hillside

Instead of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Deer Legacy Fund in support of Kanaan and Trinity Deer.