Valeria Jean Stafko

Valeria Jean Stafko, 77, of Zeigler, went home to be with her Lord and Savior at 9:15 a.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at The Voyage Senior Living in Marion.
Valeria was born on March 6, 1948, in Christopher, Illinois, to Orville and Vera (Rentfro) Issler. On October 4, 1968, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Michael Stafko, in Christopher. They shared 46 wonderful years together before his passing on April 15, 2014.
A 1966 graduate of Zeigler-Royalton High School, Valeria entered the workforce and held positions at various establishments before beginning a long and fulfilling career as a loan officer at Boatmen's Bank in Zeigler. She ended her working career at Jones Hydroblast, working for one of her dearest friends, Ruth Ann Jones.
Valeria was a devoted member of the Church of Christ at Minor, where she was actively involved for many years. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her grandchildren and participating in all of their activities. She also loved reading, cooking, and shopping, which brought her much happiness throughout her life.
She is survived by her daughter Michelle (John Steven) Vaughn of Carbondale and son, Chad (Heather) Stafko of Freeburg, IL; six grandchildren, John Blake (Karli) Vaughn of Carterville, Haden Vaughn of Carbondale, Carter Vaughn of Holloman Air Force Base, NM, Maryn Vaughn of Carbondale, Tyler Stafko of Franklin, TN, and Camden Stafko of Freeburg, IL; one great-grandchild on the way.
She is preceded in death by her parents and husband.
Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Vantrease-Pyle Funeral Home in Zeigler with Pastor Don Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Zeigler City Cemetery.
Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home on the day of the service.
Vantrease-Pyle Funeral Home of Zeigler is entrusted with the arrangements.