Mary Jo (Ludwig) Funk

Mary Jo (Ludwig) Funk, 83, of Nokomis, IL, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and family. Born in 1941 to Frank and Mary (Hegarty) Ludwig in Springfield, IL, Mary Jo lived a vibrant life filled with devotion to her loved ones and community.

A proud graduate of Sacred Heart Academy (1959), Mary Jo attended Blessed Sacrament and St. Aloysius grade schools. She married William "Bill" Steele Jr. in 1960, divorcing in 1980, and found love again with James Funk in 1987. Her large, blended family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, often playing "hide the button," a beloved family tradition. In her final days, a button appeared in her room—a poignant symbol of the love she shared from her heart.

Mary Jo is survived by her three sons: William "Bill" Steele III (Rebecca), James "Mike" Steele (Ceitha), both of Springfield, IL, and Frank Steele (Beth) of Nokomis, IL; two daughters: Cynthia "Cindy" Hancock (Keith) of Oconee, IL, and Susan "Susie" Steele of Nokomis, IL; stepchildren: Laura Pesko (Brian) of Hillsboro, IL, Linda Brown (Paul) of Petersburg, IL, and Karen Miller (David) of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; 13 grandchildren: William Steele IV, Veronica Brown, Aly Hannan, Vincent Steele, Abbey Steele, Keith Steele, Kyle Hancock, Jake Steele, Jessi Steele, Colten Steele, Brody Steele, Riley Steele, and Remy Steele; nine step-grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; and eight step-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Butch Ludwig of Pana, IL, and Bob Ludwig (Roberta) of Champaign, IL, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James Funk, her sister Barbara Owens, and her nephew Brent Ludwig.

A woman of deep faith, Mary Jo was an active member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Nokomis, where she served as a part-time church secretary, catechism teacher, and led the rosary for shut-ins. She was also involved in the Catholic Council of Women, the Lion’s Club in Nokomis and Springfield, and the Rainbow support group for children at St. Louis Catholic Church and School. A proud alumna of Sacred Heart Academy and a dedicated Girl Scout in Springfield, she lived her values through service.

Mary Jo’s professional life was as varied as it was impactful. She worked as a secretary for an insurance company in Springfield, at the Crippled Children’s Home in Riverton, and in a nursing home in California during her family’s time there. After returning to Illinois, she contributed to the family concrete business in Jacksonville, and later worked at Nokomis Savings and Loan until her retirement.

Her zest for life shone through in her love of travel—especially to sandy beaches where she could dip her toes in the sand—cheering for the Cardinals, watching her grandchildren’s sports, and dancing to rock and roll music, often to the beat of her son’s drums. She treasured attending Lions conventions and working side by side with her husband Jim and spending time with family and friends.

Mary Jo’s life was a testament to faith, family, and community. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation for Mary Jo will be from 5 PM to 8 PM on Monday, June 9, 2025 at St. Louis Catholic Church. A visitation will also be held from 9 AM until the time of the Funeral Mass on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 10 AM.  Interment with follow at Calvary Cemetery, Nokomis following services.

Memorials are suggested to St.Louis Catholic School.

Online condolences can be left at stiehldawsonfh.com

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