CHRISTOPHER – Ruth Harlene (Eldridge) Huffman, 93, of Christopher, Illinois, passed away Friday, November 1, 2024, surrounded by her family.
Harlene was born on May 13, 1931, in Christopher, the daughter of Harlan “Rusty” Eldridge and Georgia Elizabeth (Ensinger) Eldridge in the home her grandfather, George Ensinger, built. She married Vincent Huffman on August 3, 1948, and he preceded her in death on August 30, 1999.
Harlene was a stay-at-home mother until 1972 when she graduated summa cum laude from nursing school at Kaskaskia College. She was an active member of the First Christian Church in Christopher, as well participating in various social organizations, such as Eastern Star, Women’s Club, Red Hats, and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She loved to read and paint. Harlene’s passion was for her family. She loved traveling and vacationing with them, and enjoyed spending time with and caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was never too busy for her family.
She is survived by her daughters, Ruth Ellen Gorsek of Springfield, Melody Gulley of Buckner, and Apryl Malkovich (Mark) of Benton; grandchildren, Ambre’ Gorsek (Martin) of Greenville, NC, Jonell Hembrough (Chris) of Springfield, Michael Gorsek (Jessica) Springfield, Donnelley Wink (Jonathon) of Mulkeytown, Gretchen Martin (John) of Mulkeytown, Chase Malkovich (Karen) of Benton, Lana Hammond (Bryson) of Paducah, Jack and Ellie Gorsek of Springfield, IL; great-grandchildren, Leah and Ethan Bier of Greenville, NC, Emily and Luke Birtch of Springfield, Hannah Hembrough of Springfield, Brittany Ranos (Mike) of Springfield, Brydon and Lennon Huie and Holland Wink of Mulkeytown, Veda and Janson Martin of Mulkeytown, Talon Hughes, Dailyn and Dane Malkovich of Benton, Mack, Ridge and Georgia Hammond of Paducah; and great great-granddaughter, Charlotte Ranos of Springfield. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 9 at Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher, officiated by Minister David McConnell. Visitation will be held at 11 a.m., followed by the funeral services at 1 p.m.. Burial will be at the Mulkeytown Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Christian Church of Christopher and will be accepted at the funeral home.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.