Beulah A. Buhr

Beulah A. Buhr, age 91 of Grant Park, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024 at her home. She was born August 4, 1932 in Taylorville, the daughter of Floyd & Mildred Buffington Smith. Beulah grew up on her parent’s hog farm. Growing up on a pig farm, Beulah developed a special fondness for these animals. Her unique talent for getting her point across was symbolized by her pointing finger, which she used to guide and motivate those around her. Beulah’s helpful nature extended beyond her family, as she dedicated countless hours to volunteering and making a positive impact in her community. Her sweet soul and classy demeanor were admired by all who knew her. Beulah believed in turning life’s challenges into opportunities, often reminding others that when life gave you lemons, it was time to make lemonade. Her unwavering positivity was contagious, uplifting those around her. Beulah graduated from Illinois State University in Normal, class of 1955, earning a Bachelor in Home Economics. While she was at ISU, she was a member of the Gamma Phi, Gamma Phi Queen’s Court, Home Economic Club, Maize Grange, Treasurer, Women’s Chorus, and did pyramid, ladder work, and was a trapeze artist in the Gamma Phi Circus of I.S.U. Beulah married Donald W. Buhr on December 26, 1959 at Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park. He preceded her in death on June 30, 2018. Beulah was a Home Economics teacher for over 30 years at Grant Park High School. She was a member of the Future Homemakers of America, President of the Ladies Aid at Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park, and a member of the Retired Teachers Association. Buelah, a beloved woman, was known for her vibrant spirit and kind heart. Always full of energy, she approached life with an unmatched enthusiasm. With a genuine love for her family, Beulah cherished every moment spent with them, often standing on a chair to shower them with praise and affection. In additon to her warm personality, Beulah possessed great culinary skills. Her dishes were prepared with love and enjoyed by many. She found solace in her faith, and her honesty and integrity were evident in everything she did. Despite the passing years, Beulah maintained a youthful spirit, always embracing her inner child. One of Beulah’s passions was gardening, and she had a green thumb that brought forth beautiful blooms. Her strawberry rhubarb pie was legendary, a treat that left everyone craving more. Her peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were not just ordinary snacks; she would cut them into whimsical windows, adding a touch of magic to everyday meals. Beulah also had a fondness for hot tea, finding comfort in its warmth. Beulah often described herself as “fair to midland,” appreciating the simple joys in life. She was an avid fan of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Cubs, passionately cheering for her favorite teams. Beuhlah and her husband, Donnie, loved to go swing dancing in their younger years. She had a special place in her heart for Donnie, often finding solace sitting on his lap during quiet moments. Beulah loved holidays, cherishing the joy and togetherness they brought. Her presence within the community was highly respected, as she became a pillar of strength and compassion. She was a dedicated member of Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park, IL, where she found solace and a sense of belonging. Beulah’s legacy will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and community. Her vibrant spirit, love for others, and unwavering positivity continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we find solace in the memories she created and the love she shared. Surviving are one daughter, Brenda Buhr-Gladkowski of Grant Park; one daughter-in-law and her husband, Margaret F. Buhr (nee Gladkowski) and her husband, Francis Snyder; grandchildren, William D. Gladkowski, Katrina, Dale Jr., Kelly (Matthew), Kristina (Nicholas), Jacob (Haley), Megan (Alexander), Kevin Jr., and Nickolas; great-grandchildren, McKayla, Ava, Mason, Madison, Cecilia, Lincoln, Jaxon; her siblings, Dale Smith, Shirley Hendricks , Beverly Rathgeber, Floanna Crowley, James & Judy Smith, Carol Herren; many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews; Beulah is preceded in death by one son, Kevin D. Buhr Sr.; her siblings, Helen (Charles E.B. Jr.) Brown; Norman Smith, sister-in-law, Annie Smith; brothers-in-law, Herbert Hendricks, Charles Crowley, and Robert Herren; and Donald Rathgeber. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m .until the time of the Noon funeral service on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park. Interment will follow at Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park. Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church.

Beulah A. Buhr

August 4, 1932 - March 10, 2024