Shirley Emons

Shirley Ann Emons, 95, died on Friday, February 21, 2025 at Jerseyville Manor Nursing Home with family and friends by her side.

Shirley Ann Zito Emons, daughter of the late Mabel and James Zito, was born June 14, 1929 in Kansas City, MO. She graduated from Paseo High School and Huff Business College in Kansas City before moving with her parents to Alton in 1948. She married Joe Emons August 12, 1950 at First Presbyterian Church, Alton.

They were blessed with 3 children, Paula Emons-Fuessle (Bob) of Washington IL, Gayle Joehl (Steve) of Godfrey, and Matt Emons of Palm Springs CA. Her husband Joe and daughter, Paula, preceded her in death. She is survived by five grandsons: Torben Fuessle (Stacy), Nils Fuessle (Emily), Pete Fuessle (Hilary), Andy Joehl (Susan) and Eric Joehl (Shannon), and eight great-grandchildren.

Shirley and Joe Emons started their life together in 1950. They shared their 60th anniversary in August 2010. Joe died the following April. She wrote in her journal “the 60 years we had with one another were full of fun and adventure, family and love.”

Active in the YWCA, Shirley served on committees through the years. She was a charter member of the Godfrey Women's Club. She served on the board of the Catholic Children's Home and was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church. 

Shirley was Joe's crew chief through 43 years of sailplane racing and cherished the home he built for them. She always said they were a team in everything they did, and she supported him through his many endeavors.

At 83 years old, Shirley founded “Shirley’s Kids: Sponsor a Child Program” in 2012. This program supports local children within Riverbend Head Start and Family Services and will be continued by her daughter, Gayle. 

In 2018, Shirley received the YWCA’s Women of Distinction Award for her years of service in the community.

Visitation will be Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Gent Funeral Home 2409 State Street, Alton Il 62002 followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 820 W Homer Adams Pkwy, Godfrey IL 62035.

Shirley’s desire was to request memorials be made to her favorite community organizations below in lieu of flowers.

Shirley’s Kids, Sponsor a Child Program, Riverbend Head Start and Family Services, 550 Landmark Blvd, Alton IL 62002

St. Ambrose Church, 820 West Homer Adams Parkway, Godfrey IL 62035

Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.

Obit Provided By:
Gent Funeral Home