Eunice Jane Avart

Eunice Jane Avart, 85, of Springfield, passed away at 11:56 p.m. on Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at Lewis Memorial Christian Village. Eunice was born August 28, 1932 in Springfield, the daughter of Emil J. Sr. and Elsie V. Adams Hartwig. She married George O. Avart, Jr. on March 4, 1955 in Alton; he preceded her in death on April 4, 1991. Eunice attended Lanphier High School and had worked for the State of Illinois Division of Vehicles. She was a faithful member of St. Johns Lutheran Church. Eunice enjoyed playing with her dogs, watching QVC and dining out with friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Emil J. Hartwig, Jr. She is survived by her companion of 23 years, Gilbert R. "Frenchy" Howe of Springfield; son, Joseph A. Avart of Springfield; daughter, Janice (Larry) Fennell of Bentonville, AR; four granddaughters, Deborah Mann of Carlsbad, CA, Catherine Barnes of Rogers, AR, Susan Mills of Seattle, WA, and Laura Castle of Chicago; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and sister, Betty L. Kornfeld. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Monday, August 6, 2018 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield. Memorial Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 6, 2018 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Pastor Greg Busboom officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000 Dept 142, Memphis, TN 38148.