Edna F. Beal (nee Higgins) of Lockport passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

She was born January 11, 1937, the daughter of James W. Higgins, Sr. and Dorothy Higgins (nee Hayes).

Edna is survived by her four daughters Connie Beal, Robin Parker, Vickie (Charles) Burnett and Jane (John) Stepanek. Her brother Bill (Janie) Higgins and sister-in-law Barbara Higgins. Five grandchildren Nick, Natalie, Jessica, Zak and Sarah. Six great-grandchildren Aubrey, Ethan, Sophia, Anastasia, Davina and Gabriella.

Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Larry M. Beal, son-in-law Dave Parker, two brothers Richard M. Higgins and James W. Higgins, Jr.

Edna was an avid gardener. She loved flowers and had a colorful garden all summer. Edna was a kind and compassionate person who was always willing to lend a helping hand. She volunteered at the Lockport FISH food pantry for many years and was a member of Santa’s Helpers, a group of ladies who make lap throws, adult bibs and walker pockets for donation to local nursing homes. Edna was most proud of her family and her legacy lives on in them. Family time especially babysitting for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was very important to Edna.

A Visitation will be held Friday, April 5, 2024 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Newell Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois. A Funeral Service will begin at 12:00 pm with Reverend Brian Fuller officiating. Interment will follow at East Salem Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

Memorials may be made in Edna's honor to Lightways Hospice.

Call Newell Funeral Home at 618-246-0100 or visit newellfuneralhome.com for further information.

Source:Posted by Betty Sink on Jefferson County Genealogy Facebook group