Muriel Gresham Garber

Muriel Gresham Garber entered this world on January 1, 1926, in Eureka, IL, the daughter of the late Harley C. and Gertrude (Irons) Gresham. She passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2014 at Memorial Medical Center.

Muriel was part of “The Greatest Generation.” Consequently, she grew up during the Depression, and lost her father to cancer when she was 17. Undaunted, Muriel graduated from Eureka High School and vowed to obtain a college degree. As a result , she put herself through college with money she earned working for a few years at pumpkin canning factory. In other words, she was a feminist before anyone understood the word.

In addition, Muriel went to Illinois State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree. She was a member of three honorary scholastic fraternities: Pi Gamma Mu, Pi Kappa Delta, and Kappa Delta Epsilon. Muriel was also the captain of an undefeated debate team at ISU. During her time at ISU, she met Albert Leonard Garber, when they worked together on a homecoming float. Thus, they were married in 1949.

Soon after graduation and her marriage to Albert, Muriel began an impressive teaching career. First, she taught for five years in the Athens-Minonk area. Next, she stopped for a short time to give birth to three daughters. Then she obtained a Master’s Degree in 1964 at the University of Illinois-Champaign, which was unique at the time for a married woman with three young children.

Upon receiving her Master’s, Muriel taught English and Social Studies. Muriel believed in promoting the arts in public education, because of this, she directed many plays in Springfield District 186 at Jefferson and Southeast schools. In short, Muriel was a public school teacher for 28 years. Muriel loved teaching and working with young people. Similarly, she promoted equality and diversity in the classroom. Throughout her career, she saved all the letters that she received from grateful students.

Reluctantly, Muriel retired, but she was able to fulfill her dreams of world travel. With Albert, Muriel visited Hawaii, Europe, Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand.

As time passed, dementia entered Muriel’s life and stole the glory that was her spirit. Always a warrior, Muriel fought dementia by staying active, writing in her journals, and playing the piano. Her courage and strength inspired her family. Regarding Muriel’s community service, she was a member of First Christian Church, serving as an Elder, Deacon, and President of Christian Women’s fellowship. She was also a member of Lincoln Land Retired Teachers, where she served as Vice President and a member of Lincoln Memorial Garden.

Muriel was predeceased by her devoted husband of 61 years, Albert Leonard Garber and her beloved brothers, Byron and Robert Gresham. She is survived by her daughters and their spouses: Gwen (David) Martens, Atwood, IL, Lisa (Greg) Reis, Springfield, IL, Laurel Garber (Stan Gralnick), Springfield, IL, and one cherished granddaughter, Anne Elizabeth Reis.

In short, Muriel Garber was a brilliant mother, grandmother, wife, daughter, sister, and teacher. Her legacy lives through her family members friends, and the many students she taught.

Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, IL 62711, is in charge of arrangements, the family will receive guests on Sunday, October 5, from 4-7 pm at the funeral home. A funeral service officiated by Rev. Tracy Armstrong will be held on Monday, October 6, at 10 am, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Illinois Retired Teachers Association Scholarship Program, 620 N Walnut St., Springfield, IL 62702, or First Christian Church, 700 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703

Please share in Muriel’s online “Life remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com