SHARON L. (PATTERSON) BURGESS

Sharon L. Burgess 86, of Neoga, Illinois, passed away at 8:40 AM Monday, December 30, 2024 in the Heartland Senior Living Center in Neoga, Illinois. Mrs. Burgess was born August 26, 1938 in Mattoon, Illinois the daughter of Homer "Dick" and Florence (Ferris) Patterson. 
Sharon married the love of her life, Robert E. Burgess on August 26, 1956, in Neoga, Illinois and enjoyed over 68 years of wedded happiness together. Sharon graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor's degree.  As a retired elementary school teacher in the Neoga Community School District, Mrs. Burgess cherished her classroom experiences and the countless children who influenced her life.  Even after retiring, Sharon remained dedicated to sharing her knowledge and passion for teaching with others.  
She was a member of the First Christian Church in Neoga, Neoga Bridge Club, Illinois Retired Teachers Association, National Education Association and the Illinois Education Association.  Sharon and Robert had a passion for traveling, enjoying their winter months in Arizona and Florida.  Sharon valued her lifelong friendships, frequently gathering for bridge games and Saturday morning coffee with friends. She also loved shopping and baking, particularly when these activities involved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each holiday season, a cherished highlight of her’s was participating in the church-wide Christmas Cantata. 
Sharon is survived by her husband, Robert Burgess of Neoga, Illinois; grandchildren, Heather Brady of Neoga, Illinois, Blake Brady of Chicago, Illinois and Allyson Plummer (Eli) of Neoga, Illinois; great grandchildren, Brayden and Carter Cox, Jada and Ellie Plummer and Emmett Brady; brother, Richard Patterson (Kathy), sister in law, Linda Patterson and brother in law Gary Freeland. She was preceded in death by parents; daughter, Terry Brady; sister, Kay Freeland; brothers, Steven Patterson and Ronald Patterson. 
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday January 4, 2025 in the Swengel- O’Dell Funeral Home in Neoga, Illinois.  Visitation will be Saturday January 4, 2025 from 9:00 AM until service time in the Swengel- O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga, Illinois.  Burial will be in the Neoga Memorial Cemetery in Neoga, Illinois. 
Online condolences may be expressed at www.swengel-odell.com.

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