Pauline "Pat South" Elders

Pauline "Pat" (South) Elders, age 97, of Herrin, passed away peacefully at 5:15 pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Monday, April 30, 1928 in Energy, Illinois, a daughter of Eli Carol and Gertrude May (Roden) South. She married the love of her life, Walter J. "Bud" Elders, on February 19, 1948. He preceded her in death on October 23, 1995.
She is survived by her children- William Walter (Nita) Elders of Thompsonville, Steven Duane (Jane) Elders of Carterville, Michael Sidney (Victoria) Elders of Arab, Alabama, Sherry Lynn Elders of Herrin, Cynthia Kay (John) McKee of Donna, Texas; grandchildren- Emily Lester, Bryan Elders, Brandon (Joni) Elders, Amber Elders, William Elders, Jr., Michelle (Jeremy) Parillo, Teresa Elders, Friday Ebersohl-Porter, and Alexandria Porter; and several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren whom she adored.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband- Walter J. "Bud" Elders, daughter- Rhonda June Porter, siblings- Vernal Hansel South, Nellie Susannah Walker, Mary Plynie Walker, James Carol South, and Evelyn May South, and her half-siblings- Roy White, Sidney White, Blanch Ines Gibson LaBotte, and Naomi Ines Gibson McVey.
Pauline was a devoted homemaker and cherished member of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and kindness. She found joy in the simple things - crocheting beautiful creations and getting lost in books, especially after embracing the world of audiobooks when her eyesight changed.
As a mother and grandmother, she was a pillar of love and support. Her loving hands touched the lives of all those around her, and her beautiful spirit will be deeply missed. Pauline will be remembered for her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering dedication to her family.
Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 11:00 am- 1:00 pm at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.
Funeral services will be held Friday, March 13, 2026, 1:00 PM at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Don Colson officiating. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.
For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Envelopes will be available and accepted at the services or by mail to: Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; PO Box 429; Herrin, IL 62948.
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.johnsonhughes.com or call 618-942-3102 for more information.