Nina Mae Pethtel

Nina Mae Pethtel, 87, of Robinson, IL, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at Ridgeview Nursing & Rehab in Oblong, IL—the same town where her story began. Born in Oblong on July 7, 1937, Nina was the daughter of Perry & Bertha (King) Lackey, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Herbert Lackey (in infancy), and her parents-in-law, Wilfred Pethtel & Nina Pethtel York.

On April 24, 1954, Nina married the love of her life, Dwight Pethtel. Their love story began at Rich’s Café, where Nina worked as a waitress during high school. Dwight was the only man she ever dated, and together, they built a marriage that stood the test of time—more than 70 years of partnership, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Dwight survives, along with their daughters & sons-in-law, Cynthia & Mark Ikemire and Janice & Duane Parker; their grandchildren, Eric & Casey Ikemire, Bradley & Samantha Parker, Kyle & Shiloh Parker, Brittany & Jason Hill, and Kurtis & Mandy Parker; their 13 great-grandchildren; Nina’s siblings, Wayne & wife Sue Lackey, Loretta Sexton, and Katharyn Meese; her sister-in-law, Linda Pethtel; and her brother-in-law, Craig York. Several nieces and nephews also survive, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Nina's work ethic and dedication to others were evident throughout her life. After years of hard work at the Ettelbrick Shoe Factory, Nina shifted her focus to what mattered most—her family. With unwavering devotion, she cared for her aging parents, ensuring her mother never had to enter a nursing home. In 1995, she began subbing in the cafeteria at Nuttall Middle School, where her love of conversation truly shined. After all, she loved to talk and was known for her frequent phone calls—not to gossip, but simply to stay connected with those she loved. As those calls became fewer, it was a quiet reminder of how much her presence meant to those around her.

A lover of life's simple pleasures, Nina and Dwight found joy in the great outdoors, spending countless weekends camping at Pounds Hollow Campground in the picturesque Shawnee Hills of Southern Illinois. What began with a simple tent evolved into years of cherished memories alongside family in their pull-behind campers. Back home, Nina’s green thumb was evident in her garden, where tomatoes, green beans, and cucumbers were staples. She delighted in canning her harvest, ensuring her family enjoyed the fruits of her labor year-round. And, of course, no family gathering was complete without Nina’s famous homemade noodles, sour cream cookies, or Spanish cream pie—treats that became treasured traditions in their own right. But more than the meals she prepared or the memories she made, Nina’s greatest joy came from the simple act of being with those she loved. For Nina, family always came first, and whether it was sharing a conversation over the phone or celebrating special occasions, she cherished every moment spent with them.

Known for her boundless generosity, Nina was always ready to lend a helping hand, whether it was among her family and friends or within her church. A dedicated member of the Pilgrim Holiness Church—later the Wesleyan Church—she poured her heart into teaching Sunday School, cooking meals, and serving in any way needed. In recent years, she and Dwight attended New Hope Baptist Church, where their faith continued to anchor their lives. Through life's hills and valleys, Nina’s faith remained steadfast—a constant source of strength and comfort. She leaned on God in both joy and sorrow, trusting Him in every season. This unwavering trust was never more evident than the night a tornado destroyed their home. As she lay sleeping, the storm tore through their house, leveling nearly everything except the room she rested in. Nina and Dwight walked away with their lives, a powerful reminder to them and those around them of God's protection and grace. And just as He carried her through that storm, we know He has now carried her home—where she is safe, whole, and at peace in His presence. While we grieve her absence, we do so with the assurance that she is finally home—reunited with loved ones who have gone before and resting in the arms of her Savior. Her unwavering faith and selfless devotion have left an indelible mark on our hearts, and until we meet again, her love and legacy will echo in our hearts and lives, a testament to a life well-lived and a faith well-placed.

A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 27th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Paul Gray officiating. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to “HSHS Hospice,” with envelopes available at the funeral home.