Carole Jean Vanderburg

Carole Jean Vanderburg, 84, of Washington, passed away at home on Sunday,

March 15, 2026.

Carole was born on September 6, 1941, in Springfield, Missouri, preceded in death by

her parents Frank and Roxie (Helms) Hargus. She married Raymond Vanderburg on

March 13, 1960, in Springfield and recently celebrated their 66 th anniversary.

Carole began her career in medical records at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, MO. In

1964, she and her family moved to Washington, IL, where she devoted her time to

raising her family. In 1989, she began working at First Baptist Church in Washington as

their secretary, she served faithfully in that position for 18 years (now known as Gospel

Life Church). In addition, Carole served as the financial secretary for the Metro Peoria

Baptist Association and was instrumental in establishing several church libraries in the

area.

Ray and Carole shared a deep love for travel and adventure, creating lasting memories

with family and friends as they journeyed across America and Europe. Wherever they

went, Carole embraced each experience with joy and enthusiasm. She truly lived out

her motto, "Live, Laugh, Love," bringing warmth, laughter, and a positive spirit to those

around her. Carole was also known for her signature sense of style—always well-

dressed and elegantly adorned with a ring on every finger and special hat for every

occasion, all of which became a hallmark of her presence.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ray Vanderburg of Washington; her children,

Dale (Angela) Vanderburg of Taylorsville, Kentucky, Karla (Ken) Butters of Ankeny,

Iowa, and Konrad (Tracy) Vanderburg of Washington, Illinois; nine grandchildren;

seventeen great-grandchildren; her brother, Ron Hargus of Springfield, Missouri; and

several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Carole was preceded in death by her brother, Gary Hargus.

Visitation will be held at Deiters Funeral Home in Washington on Monday, March 23,

from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Pastors Brandon Blessman and

Justin Schwarzentraub will officiate. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery in

Washington.

Memorial contributions may be made in Carole's name to Baptist's Children's Home and

Family Services.

To view Carole's online obituary, please visit www.deitersfuneralhome.com.