Trisha Lynn (Stivers) Cruse

Trisha Lynn Cruse, of Carterville, born in 1955, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She lived a life marked by grace, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

Trisha's journey through life was richly blessed by her nearly 30-year marriage to her devoted husband, Victor. Together, they built a beautiful life and cherished countless memories. Trisha’s legacy continues through Victor, her two daughters, Courtney Cruse and Kelsey Isley, and her three cherished grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Trisha’s warmth and nurturing spirit touched everyone she met. Despite a courageous 13-year battle with early onset Alzheimer's, her uplifting and happy nature remained a beacon of strength and love throughout all stages of her illness. Her resilience and positivity were a testament to her enduring spirit and character. Trisha was also a breast cancer survivor. “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” 1 Corinthians 13:7

She will be dearly missed by her husband, Victor; her daughters, Courtney, and Kelsey (Evan); her three grandbabies, Sylas, Rowan, and Blair; sisters, Alice and Linda; cousin, Mary Jane; nieces, Shanna and Ashley Rosenberger, Raven Carter, and Stephanie Branch; nephew, Tyler Short; great nieces and nephews; her long-time caregiver, Mary Beth; and many more extended family members.

Trisha was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Patricia Stivers; aunt, Mary Watkins; and great-nephew, Kaesyn Bramlett.

While she will be deeply missed, Trisha’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, whose lives she touched with her kindness and love.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 6, 2024, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Pastor Jeff Wiggs officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery in Carterville. Visitation will begin after 5:00 p.m., Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, so that one day, families will no longer have to endure the battle against this cruel disease.

Rest in peace, Trisha. Your light and love will forever guide us.

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