Dorothy B. Crain

Dorothy Bednara Crain died peacefully in her home in Caseyville, IL on September 23, 2011 at one with The Lord and surrounded by the love of her family.A native of East St. Louis, IL, Dorothy was born November 9, 1925 to Frank & Lottie Bednara, both Polish immigrants. She graduated from St. Teresa's Academy in 1943 and proudly wore her STA ring her entire life. She met her life-long love, James Roy Crain during World War II and married shortly after the war. They were married for 58 years before he preceded her in death in 2005.

Although family was her first priority, Dorothy had a passion for the arts. She loved to paint whenever she could, make wonderful flower arrangements out of her own garden and enjoyed attending the theater. Her favorite musical was South Pacific and her paintings hang proudly in the homes of her . She always found time to volunteer at church and school and enjoyed the company of others. Memorials made be made to Saint Clare of Assisi Church. On line condolences may be made at www.lakeviewfuneralhm.com

Dorothy was the heart of her immediate and extended family, ensuring that each and every person was always welcomed and well-fed. The extended family routinely gathered at the farm for family reunions and Dorothy's kitchen was always the center of the activity. To the end, she was sharing recipes and advice with family and caregivers. She is preceded in death by her husband James R. Crain, parents, Frank and Lottie, nee Gula, Bednara, brother Frank Jr. She is survived by her sister Genevieve Bednara Lawanas of Caseyville, IL, four children - James R. Crain Jr. of Martinsville, IN, Susan Crain Wall of Durham, NC, Richard F. Crain of Caseyville, IL, and Robert M. Crain of O'Fallon, IL, ten grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at St. Clare of Assisi Church, O’Fallon, IL on Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 4-8pm. A mass and celebration of her life will be held at St. Clare of Assisi Church, O’Fallon, IL on Monday, September 26 at 10am.

Interment will be held in Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, Illinois

Lake View Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, Illinois