Shirley L. Schumacher, age 90, of St. Rose, passed away Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon.
She was born November 25, 1935, in Highland, the daughter of Vincent and Lucille (nee Welchlen) Schwarz. On May 7, 1960, Shirley married Wendelin “Wenny” Schumacher at St. Gertrude Church in Grantfork. He preceded her in death on November 11, 2007.
Shirley is survived by her children, Danny Schumacher of St. Rose, Donna (Jim) Voss of St. Rose, Denise (Alan) Guttersohn of Breese, and David (Michelle) Schumacher of Lake Elmo, MN. She was a proud grandma to Jamie (Taylor) Maloney, Kelly (Ryan) Kuper, Brandon (Sarah) Guttersohn, Justin (Haley) Guttersohn, Cody Guttersohn, Isaac Schumacher, Lauren (Marcus) Johnson, and Blake Schumacher; and great-grandmother to Carter Kuper and Asher Guttersohn, with Baby Guttersohn expected in December.
She is also survived by her siblings, Harold Schwartz of Grantfork and Betty Rutz of Highland; sister-in-law and brothers-in-law, Tom Zaloga of Highland, Jerry Lampe of Breese and Ray and Margie Fabre of Aiea, HI.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Richard Schwarz and Nancy Zaloga; her parents-in-law Bernard and Rosalia Schumacher; her brothers and sisters-in-law Harold Rutz, Gervase “Gerp” (Norma) Schumacher, Rosemary (Bernard “Junior”) Venhaus, Martha (Bernard “Bernie”) Weis, Patricia Lampe, and Theresa “Tessie” (Val) Buchmiller.
Shirley dedicated her life to her family and took great pride in creating a home where everyone felt welcome. As the loving wife of a dairy farmer, she understood the value of hard work and worked alongside her family while making their home a place filled with warmth, comfort, and lasting memories.
Those who knew Shirley knew her kitchen was always filled with the comforting smells of something delicious. She enjoyed making brownies, cookies, cakes, and home-cooked meals, always finding joy in sharing them with family, friends, and anyone who stopped by. Another one of her most cherished traditions was making homemade elderberry jelly. Every batch was made with care and was generously shared. For Shirley, preparing food was one of the many ways she expressed her love and care for others.
When she wasn’t busy in the kitchen, Shirley enjoyed gathering with friends for a game of dominoes. More than anything, she treasured the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and loved ones. She will be remembered for her kind spirit, generous heart, strong work ethic, and the love she poured into her family every day. Her example of faith, devotion, and hospitality will remain a lasting gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Visitation will be Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church in St. Rose.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Edward Schaefer presiding. Interment will follow at St. Rose Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to St. Rose Church or St. Rose Fire Department and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5th Street, Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family.
