Caroline J. Dietrich

She was born on August 11, 1949, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Barney E. and Amelia L. (Kleban) Ely. Caroline married James M. Dietrich on November 14, 1970, at Springfield’s St. Joseph Catholic Church. He preceded her in death, on August 24, 2003.

Caroline attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School and graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1968. She was a faithful member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church. Caroline was a bingo aficionado who also enjoyed bird watching, reading, gardening, crocheting, cooking, baking, and spending time at the beach. Her sunflower soul was known as kind, loving, faithful, and sociable, never meeting a stranger. Caroline was known to many as Momma D, Aunt Carol, and most importantly, Granny Gran. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; six brothers; and five sisters.

Caroline is survived by her daughters, Denise (Mike) Reavis and Deann (Steve) Reavis of Springfield, Debra (Luke) Borrenpohl of Okawville, IL, Diane (Aaron) Bergschneider of Springfield, and Darlene Dietrich of Sherman, IL; grandchildren, Grace, Anna, and Maggie Reavis, Ryan, Regan, and Reese Reavis, Harrison and Owen Borrenpohl, and Sammie Bergschneider; sister, Helen Ely (Reynaldo) Granados of Chicago; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Prayer Service and Visitation: Prayers will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, followed by the Visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial: 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2000 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, with Rev. George Nellikunnel, celebrant. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Aloysius Catholic School, or St. John Children’s Research Hospital.