Joan Bollinger, 90, of Stonington passed away surrounded by her family and friends at 8:25 p.m. on Monday, July 8, 2019 at Life’s Journey Senior Living in Taylorville.  She was born on May 27, 1929 in Sicily, Illinois, the daughter of Ernest “Fritz” and Lela Blanche (Batty) Thein.  She married Merle Bradley Bollinger on January 3, 1948 at the Stonington United Methodist Church.  Brad preceded her in death on May 24, 2008.  Joan was a very active member of the Stonington United Methodist Church where she served in many areas including teaching Sunday school and helping provide funeral dinners.  Joan believed in leading an active life, no matter if it was mowing the yard, line dancing with friends, exercising at the YMCA, or her yearly jump into the pool with her grandchildren.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed her time at the Stonington Library.  She loved to cook and entertain her friends and family.  She spent many years coordinating fundraising drives in her neighborhood for the American Cancer Society.  

She is survived by her children: Tim Bollinger (Jean) of Stonington and Andrea Bach (Brian) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Nicholas James (Rebecca Bolte) and Matthew Lynch both of St. Louis, Missouri, Laurel Patrick of Chicago, Brett Bollinger of Denver, Colorado, Suzanne Strle (Johnny) of Nashville, Tennessee, Meredith Bollinger of Chatham, Claire Nolan of Columbia, Missouri, and Wyatt Bollinger of Champaign; great grandchild: Tesla Bolte; son-in-law: Joe Hunt of Phoenix, Arizona; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter: Christina “Beth” Hunt; and sisters: Marj Merris (Gene) and Jean Burton (Bill).

The family will gather for a service to celebrate Joan’s life at 10:00a.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2019 at the Stonington United Methodist Church with Pastor Caleb McGregor officiating.  A visitation will be held from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. on Friday at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Burial will take place at the Old Stonington Cemetery.  Memorials in Joan’s memory may be left to the Stonington United Methodist Church or the Christian County YMCA.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Joan, or condolences to her family, may be left online at www.mcclurefunerahome.com.