Shirley A. Schmitt of Sterling, IL, died Sunday, January 4, 2015, at her home, following an extended illness.
She was born on February 15, 1937, in Omaha, IL, the daughter of William Voyle and Veda (Smith) Major. She attended Dixon Schools and was a graduate of the former Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital School of Nursing. She married James E. Schmitt on November 4, 1967, in Dixon, IL. Shirley had been employed at Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital in Dixon for many years as an Licensed Practical Nurse. She was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Rock Falls, IL. She was known for her kindness and gentleness.
Survivors include her husband, Jim; two sons, Ivan (Darci) Schmitt of Sterling and James Schmitt of Morrison, IL; her sister Betty (Gary) Steinert of Morrison; her brother, Jack (Carol) Major of South Pasadena, CA; her grandson Zach Schmitt; several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Barbara Spyrou; two brothers, William and Donald Major; two sons, Earl and Edwin.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2015, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the McDonald Funeral Home, 1002 12th Avenue in Rock Falls, IL.
The funeral will follow on Wednesday, January 7, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home, with the Reverend Daniel Behmlander officiating.
Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling, IL.
Memorials have been established to Parkinson’s Research or to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Rock Falls, IL.