Stearns

Shirley A. Stearns, 90, of Bethalto, Ill., died on Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, at Heritage Health in Staunton. She was born on Oct. 13, 1931, in Alton, the daughter of James and Ann (Tedrick) Zimmermann. Shirley married her first husband Leonard “Bud” Schmidt, and later she married Robert “Bob” Stearns. They both preceded her in death.

Shirley enjoyed playing the piano and organ. She was an avid novel and crossword puzzle lover and Hallmark Channel enthusiast. In addition, she loved spending time farming with her husband as well as spending time with her family and friends.

Shirley is survived by her children, Chris (Suprina) Schmidt of Bethalto, David (Connie) Schmidt of Wood River, Ginny (Larry) Ziglar of Staunton, Joe (Julie) Schmidt of St. Charles, Mo., Tom Schmidt of Roxana; five grandchildren, Nicole, Tate, Miles, Evelyn, Johanna; two great-grandchildren, Eloise and Ava; one sister, Dickie Connoyer of Bethalto; two sisters-in-law, Sandra Dugger and Irene Connoyer, both of Bethalto; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Shirley was preceded in death by one sister, Leota Meisenheimer; two brothers, Richard Zimmermann, and Boyd Zimmermann; one sister-in-law, Betty Bast; and four brothers-in-law, Bob Meisenheimer, Bub Connoyer, Tom Connoyer and John Bast.

Visitation will take place at Elias Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 10 a.m. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Upper Alton Cemetery in Alton.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be left online at http://www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.