Arla Morse Obituary (1930

Arla Marie Morse, 94, of Pontiac, Il., passed away peacefully at Evenglow Health Care Center of Pontiac, surrounded by her family. Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. at Calvert and Martin Funeral Home, 413 North Main St., Pontiac Il. 61764. A chapel service will follow at 12:00 P.M. also at the funeral home. Interment will be held at St. Mary – Loretto Cemetery. Memorial donations in Arla’s name may be made to Preacher's Aid and Benefit of the United Methodist Church, https://www.pasbf.org/. Arla was born February 11, 1930 in Walnut, Il., the daughter of Fred and Susan (Morse) Stroebel. She was united in marriage to William “Bill” Floyd Morse on September 1, 1948, in Loretto, Il. She is survived by her four children; Jim Morse of Longmont, CO., Sue (Michael) Wolf of El Paso, IL., Tom (Marianne) Morse of Bloomington, Il., and Teri (Don) Shane of Charleston, IL. Also surviving are her thirteen grandchildren; Erin (Frank)Oros, Ashley (Tim) Landrus, Jamie (Nathan Miller) Morse, John(Asha Kumar) Morse, Jennifer (Mark) Gerber, Peggy (Scott) Meade, Gretchen Bogner, Bill (Betsy) Wolf, Amy (Jon) D’Souza, Brian Morse, Kenn (Yen) Shane, Stephanie (Matt) Ogle, Courtni (Justin)Hays. In addition twenty-six great grandchildren survive, as well as several nieces and nephews. Arla was preceded by her parents, her loving husband William “Bill” Morse, her brother; Robert (late Nancy) Stroebel and two infant brothers. Arla exuded the love of God in every part of her life. She adored her husband, Bill, and they truly were a team in every aspect of their life. From raising four children together, establishing and running a photography business (Vermillion Studio) for many years, they worked side-by-side – equal partners in every endeavor. Always up for a challenge, and being called by God, they entered pastoral ministry and moved to Biggsville, Illinois where they served God and God’s people for 15+ years. Arla completed a five-year seminary course of study at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois and served as a licensed local pastor alongside Bill. Arla’s kindness and compassion were her defining characteristics. People were drawn to that kindness and in her they found a listening ear and a caring heart. Her family was truly her heart and she especially doted on her grandchildren! Each one has so many memories of time spent with Grandma Morse. Even in her last years, she would tell everyone just how wonderful her family was and how blessed we were to have each other! Her family would say that she was truly our family’s greatest blessing! Arla maintained a positive attitude all throughout her life. Even in her last years, she found joy in the simple blessings of life – a safe home, good food and a family that she loved and that loved her! We rejoice in knowing that she and Bill are now reunited in the glory of their eternal home in heaven. Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.