Rosella M. Kearney

Rosella was born June 15, 1933, in Bloomington, IL, to Joseph and Margaret (Flynn) Merna.

Rosella graduated from Trinity High School in Bloomington, with the class of 1951. She married Patrick Kearney on November 27, 1954. She earned her bachelor’s degree and became a registered nurse. Rosella dedicated more than 26 years to a career serving as an emergency room nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur, IL. She was an active member of St. John Vianney Parish and Villa Chapel since 2008.

Rosella found great joy in reading, writing, and spending time in nature – simple pleasures that reflected her thoughtful and creative spirit. She wrote stories for her children and grandchildren, and was co-author of “Once Upon a Hilltop” and “The First of the Baker’s Dozen”. She also was the writer, editor, and publisher of the Villa Voice community newsletter in Sherman, IL.

Rosella was proud of hosting an annual family gathering at Lake Sara near Effingham for over 40 years, an event faithfully attended each summer by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Rosella was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Margaret; husband, Patrick E. Kearney; and siblings, Joseph Merna, Mary Katherine Mellon, and Jim Merna.

Rosella is survived by her sister, Helen Kearney of Rockford, IL; children, Margie (Dave) Holly of Ballwin, MO, Patrick (Carol) Kearney of Tallahassee, FL, Tim Kearney of Springfield, IL, Rosella (Dave) Hyland of Shawnee, KS, Michael (Christine) Kearney of Durand, WI, Mary (Harry) Hull of Lewisville, TX, Paul (Dawn) Kearney of Rockledge, FL, and JoAnn (Robert) Pederson of Cottage Grove, MN; 17 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center, following services.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 902 St. John Dr., Sherman.

Private Interment will take place at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Villa West Independent Living.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.