Lois A. Fechter

Lois Fechter, 78, of Peoria, passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at the Richard Owens Hospice Home, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. She was born on June 22, 1947, to Paul and Dorothy Nighswonger, Sr.
Lois is survived by her children, Lisa (Eric) Scheffert and Lila (Troy) Schmick, both of Dunlap, and Lennie (Susan) Strong of Sparland; seven grandchildren, who called her Nana, Jessica Strong (Kyle Olson), Allyson Schmick, Savanna Strong, Matthew Schmick, Christopher Strong, Jayda Schmick, and Jayden Schmick; one great-grandchild, Charli Jean Schmick; and one bonus great-grandchild, Liam Olson and two brothers, Paul Nighswonger Jr and Asa (Pat) Nighswonger.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Mary Sims; her brother-in-law, Buddy Sims; and her sister-in-law, Betty Nighswonger. Lois worked for many years at Commercial National Bank (later First of America), lovingly cared for her grandchildren for several years, and later completed her career at Lutheran Hillside. A 1965 graduate of Sparland High School, she went on to earn an associate degree from Illinois Central College. She was a longtime member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Peoria.
Lois embraced life with joy and generosity. She loved traveling, shopping, music, and time spent with her family and friends-especially her dear friend Carmen Ford and her "lunch group" of Sparland High classmates. Known for her humor, kindness, and radiant smile, she made friends wherever she went and was known as Nana to many adults and kids.
During the past two years, Lois was an active part of Senior World, where she became known as the unofficial "welcoming committee," often comforting newcomers with her warmth. In her final months at Accolade of Peoria Memory Care, she continued forming cherished friendships with staff and residents alike.
Lois's family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate teams at Senior World/PACE, Accolade of Peoria Memory Care, and the Richard Owens Hospice Home for their exceptional care and support.
Lois is now part of the welcoming committee in heaven, reunited with her parents and sister.
Services will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 11am at Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe with visitation beginning at 10am. Rev. Chip Winter will officiate. Burial will follow at Lacon Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to the Care Ministry of Redeemer Lutheran Church. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lois, please visit our floral store.