Marjorie Jean Thomas Draper

Marjorie Jean Thomas Draper, 90, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2022 in the loving care of her daughter, Sarah, in Sarah‘s home. She was born on February 11, 1932 in Cleveland, Ohio to William Russell Thomas and Marjorie Kate Hill.

Jean was married to The Rev. Canon Charles L. Draper, S.S.C. They were married on February 16, 1954 in St. Albans, West Virginia and he preceded her in death on January 27, 2004 in Springfield, Illinois. They raised six children in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, 1954-1958; Oak Hill, West Virginia, 1958-1963; Macomb, Illinois, 1963-1986; and Springfield, Illinois. The Episcopal Church was central to their lives throughout those years. Jean enjoyed singing in the choir.

Jean is survived by her children John William (Bill) Draper (Tammy), Mary Thomas Draper, Carlotta Draper, Daniel Draper, Sarah Draper and Dorothy Draper (Albert) and her grandchildren Scott Draper (Alice), James Henry Poulos, Elizabeth and Andrew Mayes, and Zoe Draper.

Jean was a multifaceted person, who regularly reinvented herself. A fiercely independent life learner with a wonderful sense of humor, she thrived in doing things her way and challenging the status quo. She created her own businesses including multiple co-ops serving nutritious food to families in Central and Western Illinois. Spirituality was central to her life through its connection and community. She gained solace spending time in her beautiful gardens, always a celebration of variety with a full array of colors. Jean adored animals from feline companions throughout her life to watching birds and other critters on her various feeders to the two dogs by her side in her final days. She found wonderful peace and strength in her later years and generously shared that love with everyone she touched.

A funeral service will be held at 10:45am on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 Koke Mill Road, with burial to follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 9:30am until the time of service. All are invited to a luncheon following the burial at Camp Butler. Memorial contributions may be made to Aahara Spiritual Community, 329 South Douglas Avenue, Springfield, IL 62704 and Animal Protective League of Sangamon County, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702. Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com.