Gibson City, Illinois – Elynor J. Stagen, a cherished resident of Gibson City, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at her home. Her passing marks the end of a life filled with community service, dedication to family, and a vibrant social presence that touched many in the area.
Visitation services will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Rosenbaum Funeral Home in Gibson City. A second visitation is scheduled for Friday, August 30, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the American Evangelical Lutheran Church, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Elizabeth Callen. Burial will take place at Glen Cemetery in Paxton, Illinois. Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made to The Shriners Children’s Hospital or the American Evangelical Lutheran Church, in honor of Elynor’s legacy.
Born and raised on a farm in rural Paxton, Elynor was the daughter of Ellis O. and Ruby Stevens Fields. She graduated from Melvin Community High School in 1948 and began her career at the Ford County Service in Melvin. Elynor married Delmar D. Brucker in 1952, and after his passing, she remarried Elwood Stagen in 1981, who also predeceased her in 1982.
Throughout her life, Elynor was deeply involved in her community. She worked for the Melvin-Sibley School District and later moved to Albuquerque in 1985 to start a solar business with friends. Returning to Gibson City in 1987 to care for her mother, Elynor continued to serve the community in various roles, including positions with the City of Gibson, the Ford County Board, Telecare Board, and as Drummer Township Clerk. Her involvement in the Illinois Singles In Agriculture and the National SIA organizations allowed her to travel extensively and connect with many.
Elynor was also known for her love of the big band era, often reminiscing about visits to the Aragon and Trianon Ballrooms in Chicago. She was a beloved member of the “Coffee Club” at Brayshaw Pharmacy and cherished watching her sons play fast pitch softball and attending her grandchildren’s activities.
Elynor is survived by her two sons, Greg (Krysti) Brucker and Douglas (Tracy) Brucker, both of Sibley; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Gear of Joliet, while her sister, Betty Muller, predeceased her.
The community has expressed an outpouring of sympathy and love on social media, reflecting the deep impact Elynor had on those around her. Jessica Rose shared, "The Villas of Hollybrook will miss her deeply. Love…" Diana Kemmer commented, "Always such a pretty lady." Gloria Masterson added, "Great lady!!! RIP," while ConnieandPaul Arsenault offered, "Our deepest sympathy to the family. God bless!"
Other heartfelt messages include Roger Ford Jr. expressing sympathy to the Brucker families, and Jeanine Litwiller stating, "Sorry for your loss of this special lady!" Sharon Collings remarked, "Thoughts and prayers for you all. She was so nice and always very well dressed!!"
The legacy of Elynor J. Stagen’s life of service, love, and dedication to her family and community will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.