Oradell Topps

Affectionately known as Shorty by her late husband, Oradell Topps, departed this life on July 18th, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on January 18, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois, Oradell was a proud graduate of Austin High School, where she met her best friend, Sandra McKay.

On August 24, 1990, Oradell married Curtis Barlow, and together they built a life together in Oak Park, IL that was grounded in love, faith, and family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to her daughter Shaunte (Tyrone), and a proud grandmother to one cherished grandson Jordan, who she nicknamed Scooter, who brought her endless joy.

Oradell was the youngest daughter among six siblings Beatrice (Ted), Rubbie (Randy), James Jr. (Daisy), John and Darnell. She held a special place in the hearts of her family including her stepmother Dorthy, bonus children Leesha (Danny) and Curtis Jr., nieces Angel (Tony), Erica, nephews Prentice and Jamel (Nefertiti), great nephews Nasir and DelMario, and her great niece Brooklynn. And although she would fuss at everyone listed (and more) she had a way of making each person feel uniquely loved in her own feisty way.

Oradell was a spicy little woman who had no problem telling it how it is, when it is, and how you can get there. She loved stepping, listening to music, eating out, and spending time with her family, friends and neighbors Mr. & Mrs. Moore.

She will be remembered for her loyal heart, her unwavering love for her family, and the unapologetic way she lived her life. One thing is for certain, if you encountered Oradell, whether good or bad, it was an encounter you will never forget.

She was a fighter.

She was stubborn.

She was funny.

She was mom.

She was memaw.

She was Oradell and she will be missed by countless in-laws (Barlow family), cousins (Topps family), nieces, nephews, friends, former co-workers and more.

Oradell is preceded in death by her husband Curtis, her twin sister Anabelle, her father James ‘Sonny’ Topps and her mother, Lula Mae Topps.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Oradell Topps, please visit our floral store.