Patsy Kirts

Patsy Kirts, 85, of rural Oblong, IL, passed away on July 1, 2023, at Arbor Rose of Robinson, IL. Born on September 24, 1937, in Licking Township, Crawford County, IL, Patsy was a woman of unwavering character, known for her sharp mind, kindness, and the high standards she set for herself and those around her. It was this tenacity of spirit that enabled her to become a 16-year breast cancer survivor.

Her early life was shaped on her family's farm in the Kibbie area, and it was here that Patsy participated in the essential tasks of farm life. An able chef from the tender age of 12, she juggled multiple chores while cooking for her family and farmhands, and for the rest of her life, she would find fulfillment in feeding others. She fed her mind at Kibbie School and later graduated in 1955 from Oblong High School, where she stood out as a cheerleader and homecoming queen. Instead of joining her classmates on their senior trip, Patsy chose to work as a secretary at Stan & Bill Bradbury's law office, showing early signs of her practical outlook on life. Throughout her career, Patsy was recognized for her dedication and competence. She worked with commitment for attorney Bob Douglas, and in the 1970s, Patsy found employment with First National Bank, where she held the roles of administrative assistant and loan officer until her retirement in the late 1990s.

For all of her professional success, her glowing personality was at its brightest in the comfort of her home, which radiated her spirit-exceptionally tidy and oh, so inviting. One couldn't help but be drawn in by the smell of her famous pumpkin bread nor be impressed by strawberry pies so beautifully made that they belonged on the cover of a magazine! In short, her culinary prowess was a treat to both the palate and the heart. For as much as she loved time at home, her spirit of adventure led Patsy to numerous national sites, from Gatlinburg's serene views to the liveliness of Las Vegas. Cade's Cove was an ever-fond memory, and her trips to Vermont and Chattanooga remained close to her heart. A lover of good deals, Patsy always returned from her expeditions outfitted in the latest styles and bearing treasures for her loved ones to enjoy.

But that was just Patsy-taking care of everybody. Her thoughtfulness daily enriched our lives, and her ability to fix everything from a torn dress to a broken heart bore witness to the restorative, healing power of love. It is no wonder that she was a follower of Jesus. She and her sister, Darlene, played and sang many specials at church through the years, and we find great comfort knowing that they are together again, singing praises to the One who led them to life eternal.

She married James D. "Jim" Kirts on November 28, 1956, and he preceded her in death on September 18, 2003. She was also preceded in death by her parents, George L. & Maudie (Mitchell) Musgrave; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary & Alvin Kurpiel, Betty & Verl Wiman, and Eileen & Gene Price; and by her brothers & sisters-in-law, Bobbie Musgrave, Denver & Dorothy Musgrave, Duane & Joan Musgrave, and Max Musgrave.

She is survived by her son & daughter-in-law, J.D. & Jill Kirts (Oblong, IL); by her two daughters & sons-in-law, Jodi & Randy Littlejohn (Oblong, IL) and Jill Renee' Kirts-Clark & Steve Clark (Oblong, IL); by her grandchildren, Lyndsey Littlejohn & Kirk Loughery (Oblong, IL), Landon & Tara Littlejohn (Robinson, IL), Zach Smith (Terre Haute, IN), Abbey Smith (Terre Haute, IN), Daniel & Diana Clark (Wooster, OH), and Dustin & Lauren Clark (Oblong, IL); by her great-grandchildren, Tenley, Thane, and Tate Littlejohn (all of Robinson, IL), Zaiden Smith and Zandalee Reffett (both of Oblong, IL), Idamarie Clark and Annalise Clark (both of Wooster, OH), Charley Clark, Lane Clark, and Wyatt Clark (all of Oblong, IL); by her sister, Darlene Stoltz (who passed away the following Tuesday) & her husband, Norman Stoltz (Oblong, IL); by her sisters-in-law, Sharon Salesman (Oblong, IL) and Sue Musgrave (Oblong, IL); as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 7th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A memorial service will immediately follow and be held at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Burial will be held at a later date at the Oblong Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oblong Fire Department's "Christmas for Kids" program or to "Good Samaritan Hospice", with envelopes available at the funeral home.