Mrs. Geraldine Carter Stenson

Geraldine Carter Stenson, 95, of Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully at 9:50 pm on Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at her daughter, Yvonne (Rudolph) Booth’s home. She was surrounded by many family members and friends that showed her love. Geraldine was born October 18, 1917, in Ripley Tennessee to proud parents, Clyde and Fannie (Carter) Corley. Geraldine married Eugene Stenson and moved to Peoria, Illinois in 1938. To their blessed union, seven children were born. In 1989, Geraldine and Eugene had shared 51 years of marriage at the time he preceded her in death. Geraldine leaves to cherish her love and sweet memories, six children: three sons, Eugene (Naomi) Stenson, II of Santa Clarita, California; John (Arie) Stenson and Caesar Stenson both of Peoria Illinois; three daughters, Mary Frances Turner, Yvonne (Rudolph) Booth and Roberta Marshall all of Peoria, Illinois; Godchildren, Joyce and J.D Hardin, 26 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, and 17 great-great grandchildren; 2 sisters-in-laws; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also preceded in death by her parents; one son Clyde “Sonny” Stenson, 2 great grandchildren, and 1 great great-grandchild and “Godson” Reverend Stan Svetich. Gerry, as she was affectionately called by friends, was known for her hard work and cooking. She was employed at St. Francis Hospital and The Pere Marquette Hotel as a cook for many years. She also worked at the Peoria County Courthouse as a Bailiff. She retired from the Peoria County Sheriff’s Department Work Release Center. Geraldine served as an election judge for many years. Geraldine along with her husband Eugene owned and operated: The Par-a-dice club, Gene and Gerry's Supper Club, Cafe Istanbul and Stenson Community Hall. Geraldine was a person who did not complain and loved the Lord. She was a woman of wisdom, strength and was known to her family and friends as a praying woman. She organized a group of concerned citizens that became known as the "Handy Helpers Club". They feed the hungry, provided baskets of food for the needy, distributed Christmas Baskets and Toys for needy families. They gave Christmas Trees to families in many cases that could not afford one and many times provided financial assistance to families in need. Geraldine loved family gatherings and cook outs. Her favorite pass time was doing crossword puzzles, collecting elephant figurines, and watching the Price is Right, Wheel of Fortune, and Jeopardy. She was a member of Silver Star Chapter #74 O.E.S., Kamar Court #113 Daughter of Isis and Court of Calanthanas. Geraldine accepted Christ at an early age. She was the longest standing member of Zion Baptist Church for 74 years, serving on the Nurses Guild until her health failed. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, November 10, 2012 at St. Paul Baptist Church with a visitation one hour prior beginning at 10 am. Pastor Deveraux Hubbard and Rev. Samuel Duren, Pastor of Zion Baptist Church will officiate. Geraldine will be entombed at Springdale Mausoleum. Memorials may be made to Carver Community Center Fund at P.O. Box 275, Peoria, IL 61650. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the simonsmortuary.com website.

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Mrs. Geraldine Carter Stenson

October 18, 1917 - November 6, 2012