Laura Helen Bedwell, formerly of Union County

Laura Helen Bedwell, 84, of Brighton, Illinois, formerly of Union County, died around midnight Sunday, July 28, 2019 in Select Specialty Hospital, Evansville, Ind.

She was born June 21, 1935 in Cobden to Myrl Childers and Ethel Dover Childers Hancock.

Helen married Robert Dean Bedwell Oct. 26, 1954, in Edwardsville and he preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Benton Hancock, and her sister, Donna Swink.

Helen was a fantastic cook and was known for her chicken and dumplings and her desserts.

She went all out for holidays and especially Halloween, when neighborhood children looked forward to her hot chocolate and homemade popcorn balls.

She loved gardening, playing Bingo, spending time with her family and watching the St. Louis Cardinals.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda (Jim) Kirkpatrick of Creal Springs, Joy (Philip) Briggs of Manning, South Carolina, Mary (Kent) Wells of Marion, Sharon (Don) Schluter of Marion and Melena Jockisch of Jerseyville; one son and daughter-in-law, Danny (Sheri) Bedwell of Columbus, Mississippi; 18 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 2, 2019 at Jonesboro Cemetery with Pastor Don Schluter officiating. Burial will follow at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or to your favorite charity in Helen's name.

Following the service, family will gather to remember Helen's life at New Horizons Church in Marion.

Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro is in charge of arrangements.