Gwen J. Gehrs, 82, of Beckemeyer, passed peacefully on October 11, 2026, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Breese. Born on January 20, 1944, in Lewisville, Arkansas, she was the cherished daughter of Herbert H. and Nellie (Benjamin) Barge. On August 7, 1976, she married Gale Gehrs at Marydale Catholic Church, who survives her in Beckemeyer.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children: Ronda Beirmann (Dan) of Carlyle, Tona Holle (Wayne) of Carlyle, James Gehrs (Angela) of Pace, Florida, Wayne Gehrs of Carlyle, and Lisa Gurley (Mike) of Piggot, Arkansas. She delighted in her ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Her brother, Larry Barge of Juliet, TN, and her in-laws, Norman Gehrs; Fred and Donna Gehrs; Michael Gehrs; and Patty Hayden; and her loyal dog, Dusty, also known as Poochy-Pooch.

She was predeceased by her parents and her brother-in-law, Gary Gehrs.

Gwen was a devoted wife and mother. She spent many years working at the Hazlet State Park campgrounds country store, finding joy in camping, visiting family and friends, traveling to Florida, long afternoon drives with Gale, and Beckemeyer Legion Lent fish fries. She also enjoyed going to country music concerts, especially George Straight. She was an active community member; she served on the Beckemeyer Legion Auxiliary and the Carlyle VFW Auxiliary, where she once served as president.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 pm on October 16, 2026, at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle, followed by burial at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will also be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 10:00 am until the time of services at Nordike Funeral Home.

Memorials in Gwen’s memory may be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or the Alzheimer’s Association and will be accepted at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.