Cecelia M. Heimsness was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on January 26, 2026. She was born on March 27, 1942, and lived a life rooted in faith, service, and unwavering love for her family and community.
On November 29, 1959, Cecelia married the love of her life, Raymond Robert Heimsness. Together they shared over 66 years of deep love, devotion, and partnership, building a strong foundation filled with faith and cherished memories.
Cecelia was a loving mother of five, a proud grandmother to 15 grandchildren, a cherished great-grandmother to 42 great-grandchildren with one more on the way, and a treasured great-great-grandmother to eight. Family meant everything to her, and she found her greatest joy in time spent with her children and the many generations that followed.
Cecelia dedicated much of her life to serving others. She was a longtime member of the Holy Trinity Alter Society in Stonington, where she faithfully supported church ministries and activities. Her servant’s heart also led her to serve her community as a volunteer firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician with the Stonington Fire Department for 25 years. Through her compassion, courage, and dedication, she touched countless lives.
In addition to her service, Cecelia was an avid and highly talented cake decorator for many years. She was well known not only for her beautiful sheet cakes, but also for creating stunning, multi-tiered wedding cakes for hundreds of customers. Her artistry, attention to detail, and passion brought joy to countless celebrations and special moments.
Cecelia is survived by her beloved husband, Raymond Robert Heimsness; her children: Brad Heimsness (Pam) of Gallatin, Tennessee, Bret Heimsness of Taylorville, Marcy Hadden of Taylorville, and Mitzi Costello of Taylorville; along with her grandchildren: Ray Heimsness (Nicole), Trisha Reed (Chris), Cody McPike, Audreya McDeavitt (Jim), Bradley Heimsness (Jennifer), Brandon Heimsness, Cecelia Boe (Nate), Bret Heimsness, Jerry Stout (Kim), Jessica Healey (Travis), Jordan Stout, Amanda Frankford (Justin), BreeAnn Crays (Nathan), Jozie Trenhaile (Michael), and Klair Costello; 42 great-grandchildren and one more on the way; 8 great-great-grandchildren who will continue to carry her legacy of faith, love, and service; and sibling: Donald Gothard (Mary) of Mascoutah. She is preceded in death by her parents; son: Bart Robert Heimsness; and siblings: Jewel Lord, Irene Yocom, Norma Groves, and Darlene Cremona.
Cecelia will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her spirit will live on through the family she cherished and the community she faithfully served.
A funeral service for Cecelia will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville. Visitation will be held from 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
