Beatrice Jean "Bea" Roosevelt, 81, of Washington, IL died at 12:52 pm Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 20, 1943 at the Lasance Hospital in Washington, IL to Robert N. "Bob" and Marguerite Pumphrey Ernest.  Her parents and her stepmother, Iona Ernest, preceded her in death.

Bea married Steven K. Roosevelt on November 18, 1961 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Washington.  Steve was always by Bea's side and was her caregiver until the end.

Surviving are 2 sons; Spencer (Stacey) Roosevelt and John (Dawn) Roosevelt, both of Washington, IL, 4 grandchildren; Chandler (Erica) Roosevelt, Kamryn Roosevelt (Caden Watkins), Grant Roosevelt, and Avery Roosevelt, and 4 great-grandchildren; Eleanor, Leanora, Archibald, and Vance, and her siblings; Robert (Donna) Ernest of Verbena, AL, Mary McAtee of Overland Park, KS, and Denni (Cyndi) Quin and Roger (Linda) Quin, both of Washington, IL.

Bea retired from Washington District #52 after 25 years, where she worked as the Secretary to the Superintendent.  She enjoyed playing various softball positions for the Circle Four Realty team for many years. She also was a great cook, and loved to entertain, especially at Christmas time, which was her favorite holiday.

When Bea put her mind to something, she would make it happen, which included painting and putting a new roof on the house.  She also loved every minute she spent with her grandchildren, who brought her so much joy.

A memorial visitation will be from 2-5 pm on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  A Celebration of Life and inurnment will occur at Glendale Cemetery in Washington, all at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the OSF Healthcare Cancer Institute.  The family was so thankful for the wonderful care that they gave to Bea during her illness.