Teresa “Joann” Kirchgesner, 94, of Sherman, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Villa Healthcare East, surrounded by loved ones.
Joann was born June 17, 1932, in Kincaid, Illinois, to Joseph L. and Teresa Abel Molohon. On February 23, 1957, she married the love of her life, Richard L. “Dick” Kirchgesner, Sr. Together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage before his passing December 8, 2024.
She is survived by her children, Terry (Greg) Green of Athens, Rick (Tami) Kirchgesner, Jr. of Springfield, Betty (Bob) Jones of Springfield, Jim (Debbie) Kirchgesner of Springfield, Mary Ellen (David) Buch of Springfield, and Margie (Richard) Gehres of Clinton; 15 grandchildren, Becky Green, Steve Green, Scott (Eliza) Kirchgesner, Alison (Jacob) Gerringer, Julie (Darren) Patterson, Jessica Hoecker, David (Krystal) Hoecker, Micheal (Tammy) Hill, William (Shannon) Hill, Cailynn Godfrey, Amanda Buch, Sarah (Bryce) Kilian, Kate (Jorge Ortiz) Gehres, and Rose (Kolton Spaugh) Gehres; 17 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her “honey” and beloved husband, Dick; sisters Rita Bancroft, Helen Schmidt, Rose Mary Dixon, and Regina Quinn; granddaughter Emily Buch; and daughter-in-law Kathy Kirchgesner.
A 1950 graduate of Ball Township High School, Joann devoted much of her life to her family as a homemaker. She also worked for Allis-Chalmers, Thrifty Cafeteria and later for Arena Food Service at the Illinois State Capitol. She was a faithful member of the Catholic Church and was active in Worldwide Marriage Encounter. Joann gave generously of her time as a Girl Scout leader, volunteer at church, RCIA leader, and provided a smiling face delivering Meals on Wheels.
Joann enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially while playing cards, including Pinochle and Bridge. She participated in a ladies’ card club for over four decades. She and Dick also shared a love of fishing and created many cherished memories together on the water at Matanzas Beach.
Her kind heart, strong faith, and dedication to those she loved will be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and family devotion that will continue to inspire future generations.
Visitation: 5:00-7:30 pm, Monday, August 31, 2026, in Sherman, IL at Staab Funeral Home, 2626 East Andrew Road Sherman, IL. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at 5:00 pm.
Funeral Mass: 9:30 am, Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 902 St. John Drive Sherman, IL, with Reverend Fredrick "Freddie" Chima Mbiere officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. John Vianney Catholic Church.
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