Berniece Stennett

Friday, April 4, 2025 - First Missionary Baptist Church in Albion, IL
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Friday, April 4, 2025 - First Missionary Baptist Church in Albion, IL
11:00 a.m.
Graveside services following at Samaria Baptist Cemetery

Ida Berniece (Ile) Stennett passed to her Heavenly Home March 27, 2025 at the Skilled Care Unit at Fairfield Memorial Hospital in Fairfield, IL.

She was born to Corwin and Ada (Plumley) Ile on October 23, 1929, the first of six children, in a small log house just up the hill from Gum Corner School. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Duane; her brothers Robert (Rosie) Ile, Eldon (Nettie Lou) Ile, Don (Ruth) Ile, Kenny (Rose Ann) Ile; her sister Helen Logsden, and Helen’s son Dennis. Surviving are her three children: Linda (David) Stennett-Brewer of Decatur, IL; Susan (John) Shaberts of South Carolina; and Stan (Linda C.) Stennett of Florida.

Berniece started first grade at four years old, because “Miss Bessie” wanted her to start school with her best friends. Berniece graduated from Edwards County High School in 1946. In later years, she attended Colburn Beauty Academy. After she received her license, she opened a beauty shop in her home, and worked until ill health finalized that chapter of her life. She treasured friendships with the ladies she served.

She and Duane were married April 17, 1946, shortly after Duane had served 3 ½ years in the Air Force in World War II (India and China). Duane died November 15, 2013.

Berniece and Duane had seven grandsons: Anthony (Erin) Mason, Rhett (Jessica) Mason, Sean (Ashley) Brewer, Brent (Jennifer) King, Brad (Carmen) King, Nathan King, and Christopher (Emily) Stennett. They have 13 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

At age 12, Berniece received Christ as her Savior and was baptized in the chilly waters of Chalcraft Ford on the Little Wabash. She was a faithful member of Samaria Baptist Church until later years she transferred to the First Baptist Church of Albion. She loved her church family, especially the Senior Adult Class.

The family wishes to thank the many friends and family members who were so kind and helpful to Berniece. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Edwards County Senior Citizens or “Acts of Kindness” to those in need.

The family would like to recognize the Skilled Care Unit at Fairfield Memorial Hospital. The staff are the most kind, compassionate, and professional people imaginable. The facility is clean and cheerful. We would also like to recognize the wonderful care by SSM Hospice Services out of Mt. Vernon.

Berniece will be sadly missed by all, who are comforted that she will be rewarded in Heaven. She once said “I believe Heaven is more wonderful than we can even imagine.”

Services for Berniece Stennett will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at the First Missionary Baptist Church in Albion, IL. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with funeral services starting at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will be held at Samaria Baptist Cemetery following the funeral service.