Beverly Jean Burgard

Beverly Jean (Winston) Burgard, age 88, of Sheldons Grove, Illinois, stepped into eternity at 2:04 a.m. on Thursday, July 12, 2018, while in the company of family.

Beverly was born on July 24, 1929, in Sheldons Grove, Illinois, the daughter of Eddie and Dorothy (Workman) Winston.  She married James Othello Burgard on February 15, 1948, in Havana, Illinois.  He, along with her parents and two brothers, Junior and Bill Winston, preceded her in death.

Those surviving are two daughters:  Teresa (and Terry) Wells of Rotonda West, FL, and Rhonda (and David) Hester of Huntsville, IL; three sons, Alan (and Doug) Burgard of Springfield, IL, Jeffrey (and Catherine) of Lombard, IL, and Kevin (and Ruthanne) of Monticello, IL; fourteen grandchildren – Ryan, David, Natalie, Joseph, Nathan, Courtney, Brian, Jeremie, Micah, Jarred, Emily, Alyssa, John, and Michael; seventeen great grandchildren; her brother and sister-in-law Jack and Betty Winston of Rushville; two sisters-in-law Elsie Winston of Browning and Sondra Winston of Monmouth; and her beloved caregiver and friend Connie Pepple of Rushville.  She was lovingly called ‘Grandma’ and ‘Nena’.

Beverly attended school in Browning, Illinois, and later graduated high school from Astoria, Illinois.  She went on to become a secretary for State Farm in Bloomington before her marriage to Othello.  They shared over 68 years together.  They were each other’s most ardent and faithful supporters.

A generous spirit, loving heart, and serving hands defined Beverly.  She adored her five children and was active in their PTA.  She loved God and was a member of Sheldons Grove United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday School and Bible School classes.  Her involvement there included many things, such as the annual Turkey Supper which served the surrounding community.  She was also active in the Ladies Aid.  In addition she assisted with the food tents for Astoria Homecoming and the Spoon River Drive during the fall.

Beverly’s artistry and creativity made her a remarkable homemaker.  Crafter, seamstress, upholsterer, and tole painter were but a few of her talents.  Flower and vegetable gardens flourished in abundance.  Her home decorating skills could grace any magazine cover and her home made for a welcomed retreat for those who entered.  Delicious food and hospitality were enjoyed from her kitchen, the heart of her home.  Culinary delights included beef and homemade egg noodles, Sunday roast with trimmings, fruit pies, and cakes.  Her family adored her Swedish tea rings and cinnamon rolls at Christmas.  In the spring she determinedly and successfully scouted for mushrooms in the countryside, serving them up as a hearty dish.

Beverly blessed her family and friends with nurturing love and devotion.  Her earthly life was a humble testimony to the One she served.  She leaves a legacy of quiet strength, unconditional love, and encompassing kindness.

A funeral service will be held for Beverly at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 18, at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria.  Pastors John Ruppel and Pat Clements will officiate.  Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.  Interment will be in Sheldons Grove Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Sheldons Grove United Methodist Church or Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice Care.