Cynthia Jane Booher

Cynthia was born in Galesburg, IL, April 20, 1934, the daughter of Lawrence and Inez Johnson Cowell. She was a graduate of Knox College in Galesburg in 1956. In 1972 she received her Master of Arts in English from Sangamon State University (now University of Illinois at Springfield).

She married Edwin Booher June 1, 1958, and he survives. She is also survived by her children: Diana Joy (husband Tim) Hall of Bisbee, AZ; David (wife Sandra) Booher of Springfield, IL; Sara (husband Juan) Kuanfung of Wildwood, MO; and Liz (husband Bryan) Francis of Centennial, CO. There are seven grandchildren: Adam and Anna Booher, Jill and Jon Kuanfung, Jack Sadowy, and Blake and Lily Francis. She is also survived by her brother John (wife Diane) Cowell of Dolores, CO and several nieces and nephews.

As a high school teacher, Cynthia taught English in Metamora, Glasford, and O’Fallon, IL. After working in publications at Horace Mann, she was employed by the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education, where she served 26 years, retiring in 1999 as Director of Publications.

She was an active, faithful member of Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church in Springfield, where she was a member of the Elizabeth Circle and the Zephyr Sunday School Class. She served as Lay Speaking Education Coordinator for the Sangamon River District of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference of the United Methodist Church. She was also involved in the Compass after-school program and organized and participated in many bake sales, garage sales, cookie walks, and various other church efforts. Cynthia was active in many other community volunteer activities through the years.

Cynthia was an avid reader, Sudoku and crossword puzzle fan, devoted grandmother, enthusiastic traveler, and warm-hearted friend.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, IL, where visitation will be on Sunday, June 3, 2012, from 1:30-4:00 pm. Additional visitation will be on Monday, June 4, 2012, at Douglas Ave. United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas Ave., Springfield, IL, from 10:00 am before funeral services there at 11:00 am. Rev. Julia Melgreen will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded following the service with inurnment at a later date in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those that wish may direct memorial contributions to Douglas Ave. United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas Ave., Springfield, IL 62704.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.