Veronica Lawrence

LINDENHURST - Veronica M. Lawrence, 91, former resident of Champaign, died on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, at her home in Lindenhurst.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29, in Feeney Hall at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Drive, Champaign. The funeral Mass will begin at 10 in the church. Burial will be at St. Bruno's Catholic Cemetery in Pinckneyville, at 2:30 p.m. Owens Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Veronica was born on Nov. 3, 1933, to Michael and Stella (Bielawska) Pioter. She married William Lawrence, and they celebrated 52 years of marriage. He preceded her in death. Others who preceded her in death include her parents; two brothers, Roman Pioter and Stanley Pioter; and two sisters, Mary Fischer and Lucielle Szarek.

Surviving are her five children, Wm Michael Lawrence, Stephen (YeSuk) Lawrence, Teresa (William) Cira, Catherine (Robert) Kilbert and Cynthia (Robert) Olesen; seven grandchildren, LeeAnna (Josiah) Thatcher, Elizabeth Kilbert, Andrew Cira, Victoria Cira, Rebecca (Daniel) Shelnut, Elizabeth Olesen, Thomas Olesen, and two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Emma Thatcher.

Veronica was a kind and giving caretaker. Her kitchen was always open, and there was always space at her table for her children's friends. She volunteered as a 4-H leader for over 40 years and for the Champaign County Home Extension. She offered childcare in her home for many young parents as well as the teachers at St. Matthew's. She loved to crochet and sew, and she was an excellent gardener. Most recently, Veronica found she had a knack for playing BINGO and Bag-O, which she played (and often won!) in her retirement community.

Memorials may be made to the Journey Care of Barrington Hospice, The Village at Victory Lakes Resident Council Employee Holiday Fund (1075 E. Victory Drive, Lindenhurst, IL 60046) or Alzheimer's Association.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com.