Sara Elizabeth Gaffney

She was born on July 1, 1961, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of John R. and Virginia (Keith) Gaffney.

Sara graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1979, earned her associate’s degree from Springfield College, and her bachelor’s degree from University of Illinois Springfield. She was newly retired from TRS (Teacher Retirement System), after 30 years of service. Sara was a lifetime member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. She enjoyed gardening, reading, the arts, cooking Martha Stewart recipes, traveling with her mom, reuniting with lifelong St. Agnes Class of ‘75 at their yearly reunions, and taking care of her beloved cats, Sophie and Sabrina. Sara was known as soft-spoken and sweet.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Sara is survived by her siblings, Becky (Paul) Roman, Kevin (Amy) Gaffney, and Michele Gaffney; nieces and nephews, Nicholas Roman, Ashli Gaffney, Bailey Roman, and Jack, Emily, and Tyler Gaffney; an uncle; and several aunts and cousins.

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

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield. A prayer service will begin at 4:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 245 N. Amos Ave., Springfield, with Very Rev. Daniel J. Bergbower, celebrant.

Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League or Central Illinois Food Bank.

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