Esther M. “Bunnie” Doane
Esther M. “Bunnie” Doane, age 77, of Quincy, died on Friday, October 22, 2021, in her home. She was born on February 12, 1944 in Denver, CO, the daughter of John Emery and Dortha Viola (Gitchell) Piper. Bunnie married William James “Jim” Doane in 1968 in Pittsfield, IL. Jim preceded her in death on May 8, 2013.
Bunnie began working at First National Bank of Barry as a bookkeeper, then was a teller. She retired after 25 years with the bank as an executive secretary. She was an active member of Beverly United Methodist Church.
Her other memberships include the Liberty American Legion Post #640 Auxiliary and for years she was a member of the Liberty P.T.A. Bunnie worked alongside her husband as a dedicated farm wife and participant in the activities of the Liberty Lions Club. She regularly helped-out with the annual Liberty Fall Festival. Each year on Veteran’s Day she placed flags on Veteran’s graves at Beverly Cemetery, Kingston and Mound Prairie Cemeteries.
Bunnie’s enduring faith made her a great example of how to live a Christian life. She put other’s needs first, and she was always ready to help however she could. With her faith, Bunnie exhibited determination and unwavering strength throughout her illness and challenges. These are the things about her that will always be in the hearts and minds of those she touched.
She is survived by her children: Jeff (Jody) Doane of Belleville, IL and Phil (Sharon) Doane of Liberty, IL; three grandchildren: Madison Doane, Eric (fiancée Madi Morgan) Doane and Craig Doane; one sister, Joann Hitchcock of Las Vegas, NV; two brothers, Dick Piper of Cortez, CO and Bob (Ladonna) Piper of Surprise, AZ; one sister-in-law, Mary Jane Witt of Quincy.
Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
In addition to her husband, Bunnie was preceded in death by her parents, and three sisters, Leona Shade, Lois Cox and Virginia Blatzer.
Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home by Rev. Lois Sorrill. Interment will be held at a later date in Mound Prairie Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday evening from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Beverly United Methodist Church, Blessing Hospice or Mound Prairie Cemetery.
Bunnie was my Sunday School teacher, mentor, and dear friend. She was a constant encourager and so gracious in seeing the best in people. She modeled a faith in Christ that informed every part of her life and I’m so very blessed to have known her in the formative years of mine. Missing her will be hard, but what joy to know she’s Home!
What a beautiful and hard working Lady, it was a pleasure to know her. Our sincere Sympathy to her family.
Sorry for your loss Phil and Sharon. Prayers for you and your Family
What a kind & caring heart Bunnie had. When we moved into the neighborhood she welcomed us with warm muffins & tea . What a sweet lady . Our sympathy to her entire family know that she has left a beautiful legacy in this world . Ed & Linda Berry
It has always been such a pleasure to visit with Bunnie. We have worked along side each other for many hours at the Lions Fall Festival and school functions! She is missed.
The short time I got to spend with her and her family was incredible I met a lady that well touched my heart the rest of my life and the family was so kind and loving just like their mother I think them for Letting 24 seven come into their home and taking care of their mother it was an honor God bless this family prayers
Our sincere sympathy to Bunnie’s loved ones. She was one sweet lady, and friend. May you be comforted knowing that she is at peace with her Lord and Savior.
Bunnie (and Jim) were cherished friends and neighbors. She always had a welcoming smile and generous heart. We rejoice that Bunnie is in her Heavenly Home with her Lord and her loved ones who went before. (We will miss her very much here on earth.)