Paula J. Klisares

Peoria- Paula Jeanne Klisares passed away peacefully, at home, with her loving husband by her side on June 27, 2012 after a long and graceful battle against Multiple System Atrophy. She continually exuded the Lord's grace and joy throughout this 9 year journey. Her beautiful smile is permanently imprinted on everyone's heart who came into contact with her. Today we rejoice that she is now with Jesus Christ.

A visitation service will be held at Davison-Fulton-Woosley-Wilton Funeral Home on Sunday July 1st, from 4 to 7pm . A funeral service and celebration of her life will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church Tuesday, July 3rd at 10am followed by a private burial She was born on January 6, 1956 in Decatur, Illinois, daughter of Myers and Helen (Kimmons) Harrison. She married Steve Klisares on April 12, 1980.

Living on to celebrate Paula's life are her husband, Steve; two sons, Marty (Angi) Puckett and Brad Klisares; one daughter, Kristin (Chad) Rickey; 5 grandchildren, Courtney, Mitch, Kaitlyn, Molly, and Charlie; one brother, Hal (Deb) Harrison; one sister, Jane (David) Clope. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Paula's greatest passion in life was serving her Lord Jesus Christ, with a special focus on Children's Ministries. She leaves a lasting legacy at both Grace Presbyterian Church and Glen Oak School in Peoria, Illinois through her dedication to bringing children of all ages to know the Lord. Paula received the Tri-county Servant Leader Award in February 2008 after her many acts of service at Glen Oak School, including establishing the first church adoption of a public school for extended ministries in the state of Illinois. Child Evangelism Fellowship honored her implementation of her vision through the inaugural statewide Good News Club Champion Award in 2008. Paula also was presented the Divine Servant Award by Grace Presbyterian Church in May 2007 for her dedication to Children's Ministries. Her mission for community outreach and leading children to Christ resonates still through their Vacation Bible School program.

Paula served her family the way she served her Lord, wholly and completely. She was a dedicated daughter, protective sister, loving mother and wife “Today, Tomorrow, Always.” Paula's favorite scripture was Lamentations 3:22-23 “Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

Paula's family would like to express their gratitude to Visiting Angels, Homebound Health, and Hospice Compassus for their exemplary and compassionate care of her.

Memorials may be made to Grace Presbyterian Church Children's Ministries or Peoria Public Schools District 150 Foundation, care of Glen Oak Primary School via Paula Klisares. Any inquiries may be made to Woosley Wilton.