Elizabeth Bourland

ELIZABETH BOURLAND

GODFREY — Elizabeth Tudor Bourland, 82, died Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2018 at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

Born Feb. 23, 1936, in Brownstown, Illinois.

Elizabeth was a mother, librarian, scholar, veracious reader, author and friend. She was extremely curious and loved research. She devoted her life to her children, friends and the pursuit of learning for all people. Beth, as she was known by many, was a loyal and giving person. Her nature was sweet, unassuming, with a quiet determination. Beth had the ability to build long lasting friendships, something that she considered a rare and special gift. Her friends were so special to her.

Beth was raised by two loving parents, Louis and Emma (Harmon) Tudor. She has a very large extended family and she spent much of her years with all of them not too far. Especially important in Beth's life was her cousin Judy Willenborg, whom she considered her sister. The most fun moments of Beth's life were many times spent" laughing and discussing" with Judy.

She raised four children with character, strength, laughter and a lot of worry. She traveled extensively across the globe in her desire to learn and experience the world. Beth instilled the love of travel in her children, and she created a home where adventure and curiosity flourished.

Beth is survived by her four children that loved and admired her deeply: John Bourland (Pam) of Jackson, Missouri, Gabrielle Taul (Ed) of Clayton, Missouri, Marianne Bourland of Wood River, and Michael Bourland of Godfrey. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Jeremy Bourland (Haley), Jaimee Henderson (Travis), Jordan Bourland, Alexandra Taul, and Jackson Taul, and four great-grandchildren, Jenna and Paige Henderson, Mason Bourland, and Lydia Bourland. Beth also helped to form and raise a special person she considered a daughter, Carol Cira.

Beth worked her entire career for the Alton School District and retired after 40 years of service. She attended St. Louis University and Southern Illinois University achieving a Bachelor of Science, Masters and Specialist Degrees. She was an active member of the Illinois Retired Teachers Association and the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

A memorial visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, 2018 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton.

Memorials may be made in memory of Elizabeth to a local public library or a library of choice or Behavioral Health Alternative at 337 East Ferguson Avenue, Wood River, IL 62095.

Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.