Bernetta J. Meister

She was born July 2,1929 in Dunfermline, Illinois. She married Edward L. Meister September 16, 1949. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years Edward and her brother Alfred Pascoe.

She is survived by her children, Edward (Dana), Robert (Tonia), Ellen (Leon Robison), Scott (Kathy), Martha (Gordy Steffen), 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Our family is so very thankful to know with certainty our precious, much beloved mother, rests peacefully in the welcoming embrace of our dear Jesus. Our mother fought the good fight. Our mother kept the faith. Our mother’s work on earth now is done.

What a joyful homecoming it must be for our devoted father, surely watchful every moment of each day the lane of gold leading to heaven’s portal; finally seeing her triumphant arrival, then running as swiftly as he is able to embrace and welcome our mother home! From most humble, ofttimes adverse beginnings, would emerge an uncommonly gracious woman of admirable, unwavering faith. Her daily code of conduct and life path reflected her profound, abiding love of Jesus- and we have witnessed, for many decades now, He has steadfastly loved and kindly cared for her as well.

While the tender love of a devoted mother or father would be unknown to her as a child, she would herself become an extraordinary mother whose unwavering unqualified love for each member of her family and strangers alike would be her life's legacy.

She oft devoted her time and talents to feeding countless who were hungry, providing clothing and shelter for those in need, always responding to those she encountered with unfeigned modesty, genuine compassion and limitless generosity. She would unceasingly lift up in faith those who would oftentimes seek her wise council.

While pretending not to notice, we did notice Mom, as you would kneel at your bedside, head bowed with our father's hand in yours, praying earnestly together each morning and night- knowing oftentimes it was your children who were the burden of your prayers.

Your family will hold daily and forever in the treasure vault of our hearts the memory of your noble example of a life lived properly in God's sight; so gracious, unselfish, devout, forgiving, dignified, compassionate and faithful. We will do our best each day to walk the praiseworthy path you have left behind.

Our mother was an extraordinary, steadfast help-mate to our dear father, providing him a lifetime of unconditional love. She provided unwavering support to him in his many pursuits of faith-based endeavors.

So, joyfully rejoice now all of heaven for we tenderly, ever so reverently, surrender, and entrust to your loving care, that which we hold most dear – our beloved mother and grandmother! She is Your angel now! You can be certain we will see you some fine day soon Mom/Grandma. We know you and dad will be ever watchful, anticipating our arrival.

The family wishes to acknowledge the innumerable acts of kindness and daily attentive excellent care provided our mother by the exceptionally dedicated staff of the Apostolic Christian Nursing Home Skyline Drive Peoria and the skillful, Christ-centered leadership provided the Home by Mr. Matt Feucht and Mr. Dean Thomas.

A visitation will be held beginning at 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at the Apostolic Christian Church 3420 North Sheridan Rd. Peoria, Illinois. A funeral service will be held at the church immediately thereafter at 11 a.m.

Burial will be in the Peoria Apostolic Cemetery near Edwards, Il.

In lieu of flowers, if you so choose, please consider a donation to either the Apostolic Christian Skylines Nursing Home or the Berean Prison Ministry.

You may view Bernetta’s obituary online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com