Lois S. Noto

Lois S. Noto
Lois S. Noto, 88, of Edwardsville, IL, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, while residing at Brightly Senior Living.
Born on September 26, 1937, Lois was raised and spent her life as a resident of Edwardsville. She received her Associate of Liberal Studies degree from Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Park College, Parkville, MO, and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver, CO. She lived a full life, rooted in love, resilience, and service to others.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, Hazel (Shaffer) Sheppard and William Sheppard, her former husband, Sam Noto, and their beloved children, Carmen Noto, Gregory Noto, and Samuel Noto.
Lois is survived by her daughter, Tina Noto, and her granddaughters, Emma Castagnola (daughter of Tina), and Maria Ferrari (daughter of Sam). She is also survived by her grandson-in-law, Donnie Ferrari, her cherished great-grandson, Austin Ferrari, and Emma's boyfriend Logan Baggett. She is further survived by her brothers, Jim (Penni) Sheppard and Bill (Sandy) Sheppard, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who adored her.
Lois devoted her life to helping others, which included 20 years as a school Social Worker with Perandoe Special Education District until her retirement in 2004. She was a longtime devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church, and a dedicated member of The Compassionate Friends, an organization providing care and support to families experiencing the death of a child. Lois was active in several charitable organizations in various capacities as well. One of her most cherished volunteering experiences was assisting in the Hurricane Katrina relief and rebuilding effort in New Orleans. Her dedication to helping others permeated all areas of her life.
Lois was a devoted mother and the strength of her family – a true matriarch whose wisdom, guidance, and unwavering love, shaped generations. She taught all who knew her the importance of loving deeply, enduring hardship with grace, and giving freely of oneself. Her legacy of compassion and strength will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Visitation, followed by a service of faith, will take place at the First Presbyterian Church in Edwardsville on Monday, December 8.
The visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m., with the service of faith beginning at 11 a.m.
Interment will be at Valley View Cemetery in Edwardsville, following the service.
Donations to the First Presbyterian Church of Edwardsville in honor of Lois Noto are welcome.
Kalmer Memorial Services, of Lebanon, Illinois, is providing the funeral arrangements. www.KalmerMemorialServices.com.