Patricia “Joann” Byers, aged 75, of Salem, passed away on Friday, October 13, 2023, at her home.
Born on June 4, 1948, in Effingham, Illinois, Joann was the daughter of Adrian W. and Elba June Bushue. She married Carl Dean Byers on September 10, 1967, in Mason, Illinois, and he preceded her in death on October 21, 2019.
Joann is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Piper, and her husband Bruce of Indiana, her son, Troy Byers, and his wife Lena of Florida, grandchildren Jared, Abigail, and Madilyn, as well as her siblings: Linda Sigrist of Springfield, Darlene Poff, and her husband Jack of Effingham, and John Bushue of Effingham. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Linna Bradford of Heartville and Anita O’Leary, and her husband Mike of Kinmundy.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Joann worked at Walmart in Salem before her retirement. She was a dedicated member of the Salem First Christian Church and had a strong Christian faith.
Joann never met a stranger as evidenced by her many great friendships. She loved her friends like family and was blessed with the best friendships from early school days, camping, church, neighbors, Walmart, and her Plantation Grove Community in Florida.
Joann had a love of baking and cooking. She was famous for her rolls and noodles. She rarely went anywhere without baked goods to share with family and friends. She was frequently referred to as “Betty Crocker.”
Joann loved her family fiercely. From siblings to cousins to nieces and nephews, her love was unchanging. She lived for her kids and grandkids. She was so proud of them. But she loved her husband most of all and missed him immensely. She is undoubtedly reunited in heaven with him and her parents now.
A Celebration of Life Service for Patricia “Joann” Byers will be held on November 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at First Christian Church in Salem with Phil Martin officiating. There will be a time to visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. She will be laid to rest in the Alma Cemetery in Alma, Illinois.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Oil Belt Christian Service Camp in Flora, Illinois, or the First Christian Church in Salem, Illinois. Contributions will be received at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, which is assisting the family with arrangements. You can also share your condolences and memories at www.CrouseFH.com. Patricia “Joann” Byers will be remembered with love and fondness by those whose lives she touched.
