Mary Claire Hempstead

Mary Claire Hempstead, 85, of Springfield, died on Thursday, September 14, 2017 at Memorial Medical Center. She was born March 3, 1932, to George and Mary T. Johnson of Peoria. She married Charles A. Hempstead in August 1956. Mary was associate editor of the Illinois Historical Journal and previously historical research editor for the Student Historian Program at the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, retiring in 1991. She also taught English, history, and Spanish at schools in Peoria, Varna, Avon, and Washington, IL. She earned a bachelors degree in English from Bradley University. She was an active member of the American Association of University Women and several book clubs. She enjoyed volunteering as a tour guide at the Illinois Executive Mansion. Mary Claire was preceded in death by her parents; sister Lois; and her husband. She is survived by her sister, Rita Loyd of Peoria; and four children, Chuck of Austin, TX, Terri of Springfield, Cathy of Bloomington, and MSgt. Jeff (Camilla) of Washington, IL. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Jessica, Jason, Caitlin, and Victoria. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield. Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 18, 2017 at Christ the King Parish, 1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield, with Rev. Joseph Ring, celebrant. A family graveside ceremony will be held at St. Marys Cemetery in Peoria. Memorial Contributions: Central Illinois Food Bank, P.O. Box 8228, Springfield, IL 62791 or a charity of the donors choice.