Lillie Niehls

Lillie Mae (Bushman) Newcome Niehls, 93 years of age, entered heaven and into the arms of her Savior on Sunday, January 29, 2017, at Heritage Health in Pana, IL. Born in Canton, MO, on August 15, 1923, she was the eldest child of the late Robert and Dartha (Allen) Bushman. Upon graduation from Moweaqua High School and Brown’s Business College, she married Haldon James Newcome (deceased 1956) and later, Elmer Claire Niehls (deceased 2006). Her career focused on nurturing three children, while working by Haldon’s side in the family restaurant business until his death. Utilizing her business skills, she then became secretary and accountant for the Decatur Foursquare Church for more than 25 years. After her retirement she continued to work part-time as administrative secretary at Emmanuel United Methodist Church.Surviving are her children: Karen (Stephen) Neece of Pana, IL, James (Lonni) Newcome, and Mary (Michael) Bowrey, both of Decatur; grandchildren: Nathan Shaffer of Bloomington, IL, Kari (Matt) Tucker, Dr. Kristin Newcome (Ted) Hesse, Melody Bowrey, all of Decatur; great grandchildren: Jeffrey (Hope) Tucker, Zachary and Eliana Hesse, all of Decatur.Also surviving are: stepson Ed Niehls of Jacksonville, IL; step grandchildren: Wesley (Becky) Neece and Katie (David) Louviere of GA, Cheryl (Jim) Stratton, Zena Hathcoat, Bill Niehls, Neil Green of Jacksonville, IL; step great grandchildren: Rowan and Carlson Neece, and Will Louviere of GA. Mae is also survived by brother-in-law, Damon Billings and sister-in-law Norma Newcome as well as many nieces and nephews.Mae was preceded in death by two great grandchildren, Natalie and Will Tucker; two step children, Shirley Green and Kenneth Niehls, brother, Richard Bushman, and sisters, Christy Damery and Delores Billings.Mae had a deep conviction in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and a loyal friend to many. Her greatest joy was to spend time with those she loved. She left a lasting legacy of faith, spiritual strength, and family devotion.A funeral celebration will be held at 11:00 on Thursday, February 2, 2017, at Life Foursquare Church, where she was a member for over 60 years. Friends are welcome to join the family for a visitation from 9:30 until service time. The family of L. Mae Niehls is being served by Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Life Foursquare Church or the Parkinson’s Foundation. "
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