Loradean M. Wills Obituary (1930

Loradean M. Wills, 91, passed away peacefully while sleeping the morning of February 3, 2022, at Luther Oaks, Bloomington, IL. Lori moved from Cape Girardeau, MO, to Bloomington in July 2020 to be closer to family. Lori was born in Zalma, MO, on September 14, 1930, to Willard R. and Eva Elizabeth (Rae) Clubb. Along with several friends, Lori and Earl Wills, Jr., eloped to Arkansas where they were secretly married on December 29, 1946. Junior passed away on October 25, 1988, at the age of 60. While raising two daughters, Lori completed a degree in Elementary Education at SEMO University, graduating in 1965. She taught school for 31 years in Tamms, IL. Lori carpooled with other teachers from Cape to Tamms and when it wasn't her turn to drive, she would crochet tablecloths and bedspreads for family and friends. Lori had the gift of hospitality and enjoyed entertaining in her home and backyard. She made hundreds of cookies to share with family and friends at Christmas. She stayed in shape by walking every day and riding her bicycle. An avid gardener, Lori was a recipient of the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce Beautification Award. Lori loved to travel with friends. She took several trips to Europe where she bicycled through the countryside. Lori was stranded in England on September 11, 2001. She had the privilege of participating in church services that were held in response to 9/11 at Shakespeare's Church in Stratford-upon-Avon and Westminster Abbey in London. Lori volunteered at St. Francis Medical Center for many years and was named Auxilian of the Year in 2009. She served as president of the Hospital Auxiliary and chairman of the St. Francis Foundation and Auxiliary Scholarship Committee. In 2007 she established the Earl Jr. and Lori Wills Memorial Scholarship as a tribute to her husband. Lori was a Girl Scout leader, a charter member of Scope Club, an excellent Bridge player, an avid reader, and a hospice volunteer. Lori loved her family and had a very special bond with her granddaughter, Katie, who helped care for her after she moved to Bloomington. Lori is survived by her daughters: Becky (Brian) Naber, Normal, IL, and Connie (Charles) McCarthy, San Diego, CA; grandchildren: Katie (Craig) Bowars, Bloomington, IL, Chris (Jessi) Naber, Louisville, KY, Aaron (Anna) Couch, Los Angeles, CA; great-grandchildren: Caden and Chloe Bowars, Macy and Will Naber, and Baby Boy Couch due to arrive in April; brother, Jerry (Pauline) Clubb, Madison, AL. Her parents, husband, and three brothers preceded her in death. The family will gather for a Celebration of Life at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Luther Oaks Employee Appreciation Fund, 601 Lutz Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704 or Teen Challenge in Cape Girardeau.