Olivia Shay Ary-Wach

She was born September 24, 1976, in Springfield and passed away in her home in East Peoria on February 28, 2026.

She is survived by her parents, David and Pat Ary of East Peoria; one brother, Christian Wach of East Peoria; her biological father, Peter (Laurie) Wach of Arizona; many cousins, Jason, Stef, Danielle, Chad, Todd, Melinda, Kim, Nathan, Tracie, Nicole, Brent, Liz, Jeff, Allison, Gabe, Colette, Tyler; and many aunts and uncles, Annette (Gary) Boucher, Mike (Kathy) Calabro of Peoria, Diane (Dick) Beebe of Manito, Larry (Connie) Ary of Green Valley, and Sheri (Frank) Ciastko of Decatur.

Olivia was given by God a spirit of love and happiness that filled the lives of those who knew her. Even though she could not verbalize her feelings, her ability to connect with others was not hindered. Her smile and laughter brought such comfort and joy to those to whom she touched. Strangers passing by were frequently drawn to her, breaking into a smile whenever they saw her.

Over the past 27 years, she attended EP!C of Peoria day program and later joined Tazewell County Resource Center (TCRC) where she learned daily living skills and formed many lifelong friendships. Livy also enjoyed many activities throughout her life. Some of these included music, magazines, car rides, walks, dancing, eating, and interacting with family and friends. She also enjoyed playing peek-a-boo and clapping, and they were a major part of her interactions with others. She participated in Bethany Community Church’s Buddy Program which serves people with special needs. It was there that the love of Jesus was reinforced to her.

Olivia’s visitation will be held on March 6, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Bethany Community Church located at 27577 Dutch Lane in Washington, Illinois. There will be a celebration of life the next day on March 7, 2026, at the church at 10:30 a.m. with visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Pastor Blake Gerber will officiate. Burial will take place in Prairie Haven Cemetery in Pekin.

Please honor Livy by donations in her memory to Bethany Community Church (Please note Buddy Ministry in memo) www.bethanycommunitychurch.org/about/giving.asp or Tazewell County Resource Center (TCRC) at www.tcrcorg.com

Online condolences may be shared with Olivia’s family at www.Preston-Hanley.com