Freida M. Caulkins

Freida Mae Caulkins, 98, formerly of Brimfield, passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at her residence in Peoria. She was born May 18, 1926 in rural Elmwood to Frederick and Lois (Miles) Keyser. She was a 1943 Elmwood High School graduate and went on to attend Dickinson Business School in Peoria, Illinois. Freida worked for R.G. LeTourneau from 1944 to 1948 and later worked for Negley, Jens & Rowe which was a stocks and bonds firm in Peoria.

Freida married Henry Franklin “Frank” Caulkins on March 20, 1948 at the First Presbyterian Church in Elmwood. He preceded her in death on December 21, 2014 in Farmington, IL. She was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, William Keyser and Rick Keyser; and one sister, Grace “Ted” Bossingham.

She is survived by five children, Linda (Roger) Stegall of Chillicothe, Roland (Becky) Caulkins of Brimfield, Scott (Shelly) Caulkins of Morton, Tracy (Lori) Caulkins of Brimfield and Lois (Steve) Seiler of Peoria; two sisters, Joy Patton and Judy Groeper; sister-in-law Robbie Keyser; thirteen grandchildren; and sixteen great grandchildren.

In 1963, Freida and Frank began a Labor Day Weekend Picnic for their extended family which was held at their farm in Brimfield. This Caulkins’ tradition has continued for 61 years. This year, Freida was able to attend and enjoy this tradition where she visited with many family members and enjoyed a variety of great food. She and Frank were also very active in square dancing for decades. They danced with a variety of clubs including the Wheel n Dealers and the Diamond Plus. They greatly enjoyed these moments and the lasting friendships they made.

She also enjoyed quilting, gardening, cooking, crocheting, writing letters and cards, as well as reading and putting together puzzles. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and friends. She has left them with a legacy of humility, kindness, generosity, and Christian values, especially by living a life that followed the Golden Rule of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Matthew 7:1

Cremation rites have been accorded and a private memorial will be held by the family at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Elmwood United Methodist Church Manna Meal. To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.