Crildria I. “Polly” Burkett, age 86, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Monday, February 8, 2016, at Clay County Hospital in Flora.

 

   Polly was born July 7, 1929, in Iuka to Ernest and Cora Alice (Watson) Brown.  She married Darwin Burkett on December 21, 1962, in Xenia.  He preceded her in death February 17, 2006.

 

   Polly was a very special wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.  She will be missed so much for her caring ways and giving spirit, but has left a treasured legacy of love, memories, and heirlooms for her grandchildren and family.  Early in life, she worked the land of her family farm, and she was later employed as a waitress.   She was of the Christian faith.  She enjoyed caring for animals and gardening, and was twice recognized with the “Yard of the Month” award.  Sharing her knack for sewing, crocheting, and quilting, she often handmade blankets as gifts for others, and inspired the next generation of her family to carry on her skills, interests, and life-learned knowledge.  Happiness for Polly was being able to make her home a warm and caring place where family and visitors were welcomed by beautiful flower beds and good home cooking, and where cards were played and many memories were made.

 

   She is survived by 3 children: Jack (Nancy) Ross of Patoka, Brenda Woolever of Flora, and Vernon (Shelly) Burkett of Flora; 6 grandchildren: Scott (Lisa) Ross, Tonya (Lucas) Goodman, Anthony Woolever, Michael Woolever, Megan (David) Hayes, and Brandon Burkett; and 6 great-grandchildren: Bryant, Caleb, and Alison Ross, Alex Goodman, and Aria and Ethan Woolever.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Darwin; and 8 brothers and sisters.

 

   A funeral service for Polly Burkett will be 11 a.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Dr. Donald Bunnell officiating.  Interment will follow in Powers Cemetery, Xenia.  Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Powers Cemetery, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory with the family, visit www.frankandbright.com.