Ronda Sechrest

It is with deep love and heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Ronda Sechrest who went home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 15, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy built on kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Ronda was born on February 9, 1964, in Alton, the daughter of Carol (Adams) Copeland of Wood River and the late Lonzo Copeland. She married the love of her life, Larry Sechrest, on May 27, 1989, in South Roxana, and he survives. In addition to her mom and her husband, Ronda is survived by two daughters and sons in law: Kara and Michael Corby of Staunton, Ashlie and Jeramy Oswald of Highland, a son and daughter in law: Kyle and Cami Sechrest of Godfrey, seven grandchildren: Hayden, Logan, Aleah, Oliver, Camden, Carson, Chloe, a brother and sister in law: Lonnie and Chrissie Copeland of East Alton, her mother in law: Linda Roberts of Cottage Hills, her sisters in law and brothers in law: Regina and Phillip Baldwin of Wood River, Dennis and Aimee Sechrest of Wood River, Frank and Kendra Roberts of Alton, Wesley and Chrissy Roberts, Jr. of Harford, Karen and Andrew Chamberlain of Troy, Illinois, Jason and Marie Roberts of Virginia, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

From the earliest days of her life, Ronda made it her mission to be a source of comfort and encouragement to others. She was thoughtful and giving, always ready with a listening ear, a gentle word, or wise advice. Her ability to make every person feel valued was one of her greatest gifts, and countless lives were made brighter because of her.

Ronda’s faith in Jesus guided her steps and strengthened her spirit, especially during the challenges she faced. Despite a long and difficult battle with her health, she carried herself with grace and joy, even on her hardest days. Her radiant smile, warm laughter, and steadfast positivity were testaments to her remarkable strength.

She found peace and happiness in the simple gifts of life. She loved the water and cherished every opportunity to go swimming, where she felt renewed and free. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her grandbabies, who were the light of her life. Their giggles, hugs, and milestones brought her immeasurable joy.

In addition to her dad, Ronda was preceded in death by her father in law: Wes Roberts and her sister in law: Sandra Farris.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 9am until time of funeral services at 11am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Rev. Timothy Keller will officiate. Burial will follow at Wanda Cemetery in South Roxana.

Memorials are suggested to the Siteman Cancer Center and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Her life was a beautiful example of what it means to love selflessly, to serve others, and to find joy even in hardship. We will miss her dearly, but her kindness, faith, and strength will continue to guide us.

“Well done, good and faithful servant."