Mary Ellen Stuart Brayfield

She was born January 24, 1932 in Normal, IL, daughter of Franklin and Minnie Louise Simke Stuart. She married Harley G. Brayfield on February 11, 1951, he preceded her in death on February 22, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one infant son, David in 1971.

Surviving are her children, Terri (William) McDaniel of Bloomington, James Brayfield of Normal, Alan (Robin) Brayfield of Bloomington and Vicki (Kevin) Kichas of Poway, CA. Also surviving are three granddaughters, Paula (Jacob) Hieser, Brittani (Evan) Price and Brandi (Matt) Wright and two great-grandsons, Hayden and Hudson Hieser.

Mary Ellen was a 1952 graduate of Illinois State Normal University, and later received her Master’s Degree in Special Education. She taught in the Pontiac and Unit 5 districts for 34 years. After retirement, she continued to support education by working part-time as a substitute teacher for Unit 5 until 2005. She knew the value of education and was very supportive of her children and grandchildren in their education accomplishments.

She enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge and often participated in Bridge competitions. She also enjoyed animals, canning vegetables and fruits, cooking and working puzzles.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 8, 2013 at East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington, where visitation will be one hour prior to services. Cremation rites have been accorded. Inurnment will follow services at East Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Bloomington, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Central Illinois. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.EastLawn-Bloomington.com.