Obituary of Helen L. McDonnough

Helen Louise (Hildebrant) McDonnough, age 88, of Springfield, Illinois, formerly of Carlinville, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. at Carlinville Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, Carlinville, IL. Helen was born on October 15, 1935, in White Hall, IL, a daughter to Lester and Opal (Carter) Hildebrant. She was known and loved by many, keeping close and in touch for decades despite circumstance or distance. Early in her career, she taught in public schools but later served as a ministry assistant at Illinois Baptist State Association, mostly in collegiate ministries, for 28 years. She also served her church as a Sunday School teacher for nearly 40 years. A hardworking single mother, Helen was industrious and generous throughout her life. She was a wonderful homemaker who enjoyed sewing, reading, and spending time with her children and grandchildren in her home, playing cards and board games and cooking alongside the young ones. Her homemade whole wheat yeast rolls and pumpkin pies were the highlight of many a family homecoming and holiday gathering through the years. Survivors include her son, Noel (Cyndi) McDonnough of Fort Worth, TX; three daughters, Cynthia (Mark) Morningstar of Shelbyville, IN, Sylvia McDonnough of Springfield, IL, and Joyce Weaber of Keller, TX; six grandchildren, Mandy Morningstar, Beth (Matt) Binder, Jill Morningstar, Grant (Mikayla) Weaber, Jason (Nicole) Bridschge, and Patrick Bridschge; and several great-grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Mary (Hildebrant) Belcher, and grandson, Jason Bridschge. Visitation will be observed from 11:00 am-1:00pm prior to the funeral service, which will be held at Davis-Anderson Funeral Home, Carlinville, IL on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Josh Parsons officiating. Interment will be in Prairie Lawn Cemetery, Carlinville, IL. The family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of donations to the Macoupin County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, or to the charity of your choice. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be given at www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com.