Myrna J. Strack

Myrna J. Strack, 74, of Murphysboro, Illinois, went to be with her Lord on Thursday, June 14, 2012. Myrna was born on August 5, 1937, the eldest child of John Steele Finley and Aleta (Ulrich) Finley. She was raised in Sparta, Illinois, on the family farm, until as a teenager, she moved with her family to Charleston, Illinois. She attended Eastern Illinois University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts. Myrna worked in sales most of her life, but in later years, she was a substitute teacher in area schools, where she was loved by children for her "Petey the dog" stories. She was also a caregiver for the elderly. She was a loving and devoted mother to her three children and was affectionately known as "Gram" to her 10 grandchildren. She was an artist gifted in drawing, painting, storytelling, decorating and floral design. She had a quirky sense of humor and a love of life. She loved animals and had a tender heart for all, especially her beloved Scottie dog, Mac Tavish. Myrna was an active member of Calvary Campus Church in Carbondale, and her faith was truly the touchstone of her life. Her love for Christ shaped and defined her, and she dedicated her life to praying for others and sharing of her faith. During the 1970's, she was instrumental in organizing the local chapter of the Full Gospel Business Men's Association and the Carbondale Chapter of the Women's Aglow, where she served as President for several years. Myrna was rich in friendships-she spent her life-loving and helping people of all walks of live. Myrna was an excellent cook. She loved to entertain and was known for her hospitality and bread making skills. Her "home on the hill" where she lived for almost 50 years was a refuge to many. She is survived by three children Scott Strack and his wife Theresa Strack of Murphysboro, Shawn Oehrlein and her husband Monty Oehrlein of Liberty Hill, Texas, and Jennifer Van Meter and her husband Ron Van Meter of Murphysboro. She was proud of her nine grandchildren Sara Strack, Eddie McNeill, Steve Strack, Aaron McNeill, Megan Oehrlein, Stefanie Strack, Samantha Strack, Clayton Oehrlein, and Grace McNeill, and one great grandson Ethan Minor; two brothers and one sister Marlyn Finley of Charleston, IL, Linda Irby of Dallas, TX, and Mark Finley of Colorado Springs, CO; one aunt Grace Moore of St. Louis, MO; and many, many close friends. Her family wishes to thank all of her friends and neighbors for the outpouring of love and support they have received.

Myrna J. Strack

August 5, 1937 - June 14, 2012