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Lillian Louise Schum Gentry
Obituary NoticeLillian Louise Schum Gentry, age 77, died late Tuesday (December 17, 2002), afternoon in Little Rock. She was born in Ivesdale, Illinois to Matilda and Beno Schum. Lillian was one of eleven children raised and schooled in the Catholic faith. Her husband John, sister, Jeanette Schum, and brother, Carl “Shorty” Schum predeceased her. Lillian left school early to help provide for her younger siblings. She met and married John Gentry in 1942. She was a military wife and lived many places with her husband, making friends easily at the different stations of duty. She and her husband adopted their only daughter and child, Beverley (Bobbie) while stationed in Germany. Her role as mother and wife gave her great joy and she devoted herself to this endeavor. Lillian loved to cook for family and friends. She was a devoted grandmother and delighted in being with her grandchildren. She lovingly embroidered crib blankets for each child, giving them lasting keepsakes. Lillian was devastated when her “Johnny” died nine years ago. She suffered as a widow from grief as well as chronic illnesses, the ravages of aging, and physical disabilities. She voiced little complaint throughout her years of struggle. Mrs. Gentry is survived by one child, Beverley Foster and her husband Doak, and her beloved grandchildren Annie and Joseph all of Little Rock. Eight remaining siblings, as well as many nieces and nephews, also survive her. Heartfelt thanks to her devoted in home caregiver Bonnie Brand and long term caregivers and nurses that loved her as their own. Mrs. Gentry was cared for during her last years by compassionate physicians, Dr. Sue Ulmer and Susan Santa Cruz. Her family was blessed by their presence. Having received her last sacrament and being in spiritual peace, Lillian will be cremated and interred with her husband in the National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois where a private memorial service will be held at a later time. Arrangements are by Ruebel Funeral Home. Memorials in lieu of flowers should be made to a favorite charity. Register Book
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