Jane Blythe Stallman of Chester

Jane Blythe Stallman, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend, was unexpectedly taken from us on April 6, 2022 at the age of 68, while surrounded by loved ones, to take her rightful place in heaven.

She was born to Joseph and Sylvia Akers on April 9, 1953 in Bronxville, New York. In 1966, they moved to Chester, Illinois where her father took control of the Randolph County Herald Tribune, at which Jane would later work for several years.

Jane married Steven Stallman on Sept. 1, 2006; he survives.

Jane had an infectious love for the arts, especially music and theater, often launching into impromptu musical numbers at the piano during family gatherings, serenading her loved ones with performances worthy of the biggest stage.

She was an accomplished pianist, playing organ for St. John Lutheran Church for 18 years, while also acting as choir director and children's music teacher.

She was heavily involved in numerous community clubs and organizations, including the Chester Women's Club, Muny Band, and various other community chorus and theater productions throughout her lifetime.

The only things Jane loved more than music, however, were her family and friends. She was relentless in her pursuit of togetherness, but never allowed her wants to exceed those of everyone around her. She will be missed dearly by all who have had the pleasure and the privilege to know her.

Jane is survived by her husband, Steven Stallman, of Chester; two children, Amie Boente of Swansea, Illinois and Joe Goetting of Herrin, Illinois; her mother-in-law, Henrietta Stallman of Chester; two stepchildren, Wesley Stallman of Chester and Lindsey (Dan) Williams of Glen Carbon, Illinois; four grandchildren, Sophia and Chase Boente, and Ava and Zoey Goetting; two step-grandchildren, Henry & Wren Williams; and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 11, 2022 at St. John Lutheran Church in Chester, officiated by the Rev. Timothy Sims. Interment will follow at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Chester.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 10 at Pechacek Funeral Homes in Chester and again from 9 to 10 a.m. on Monday at St. John Lutheran Church in Chester.

Memorials are suggested to St. John Lutheran Church of Chester.

To view this obituary and sign the register book visit www.wpfh.net.