Eileen J. Minett

Eileen J. Minett, 85, of Springfield, passed away at 2:55 a.m. on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at St. John's Hospice. Eileen was born December 29, 1926 in Springfield, the daughter of Leslie and Alice Bowman Conavay. She married John Minett and he preceded her in death on June 1, 1988. Eileen worked as a waitress at the Mill Restaurant and retired from the State of Illinois Department of Transportation Water Resources division. She loved dancing and was very accomplished in her younger years. She even auditioned in Hollywood. Eileen enjoyed playing slot machines and going to the boat, crocheting, and enjoyed watching General Hospital and other soap operas. She was also preceded in death by her parents; son, Jimmy Cauthen; and great-grandson, Peyton May. She is survived by two sons, John Minett of Springfield and Steven (wife, Sherian) Ward of Lewistown; one daughter, Debbie (husband, Michael) May of Mahomet; one daughter-in-law, Joyce Carmody of Springfield; seven grandchildren, Ron Cauthen, Stephanie and Scott Ward, Jennifer Jacobs, Jimmy, Chris and Ashley May; and two great-grandchildren, Natalie Jacobs and Riley May. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, with Pastor Darrell Debowey officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: St. John's Hospital Hospice Program, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62702.