Janet Esda Winkler

Janet Esda Winkler of Metamora, Illinois, ascended to heaven at the age of 89 on October 2, 2026. Janet was cared for and surrounded by her devoted children and grandchildren before she peacefully passed in her home, overlooking the Illinois river from her picture window with a photograph of her beloved husband at her bedside.

Janet is reunited in heaven with her husband Willard, son Jim, her parents, stepbrother Warren Franklin and sister Eloise Franklin. She is survived by children Scott (Judy) Winkler, Tom (Pat) Winkler, and Laura (Robert) Bermes as well as a legacy of grandchildren: Matthew (Paula) Winkler, Jennifer (Nick) Hoepfner, Andrea (Nick) Winkler-Booth, Maria Winkler, Kristen (Greg) Swanson, Meaghan (Geoff) Haney, Michael (Samantha) Prather, Amanda (Antonio) Principe, and Alex Winkler. 17 great-grandchildren have been blessed by Janet’s loving presence in their lives.

Janet was born on November 17, 1936, in Toulon, IL, to Arthur and Esda Franklin. She attended Illinois State University and Bradley University to earn her bachelor’s degree in education which led to an impactful 33 years of teaching. Janet began teaching at Riverview Grade School before spending a majority of her career at Metamora Grade School, primarily as a kindergarten teacher. During her final days on earth, Janet fondly recalled how the love of her life, Willard, was a strong supporter of education as both a school board member and husband. Married in 1958, Willard and Janet spent 52 special years building a family, advocating for education, traveling the world, and caring for the family farm.

Faith was a consistent anchor and comfort to Janet. She attended church all her life and had a special love of gospel music. For Janet, singing was the purest expression of her devotion to Jesus. Blessed are those who were able to listen to her beautiful voice give life to hymns such as “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and “O Holy Night” before her church family.

Above all, Janet placed immense value on time spent with family. She never shied away from speaking her truth, but could also provide warmth and gentleness. Visits brought her great joy. When family came together, Janet was at her happiest. She never hesitated to join in with lighthearted antics and clever quips that resulted in laughter from all surrounding her.

This is the legacy Janet leaves – faith, joy, family.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Christian Union Church with Pastor Gary Salm officiating. The service will be live streamed on the church website. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until service time, also on Thursday at the church. Burial will be at Spring Bay Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Metamora Grade School Foundation, 815 East Chatham Street, Metamora, IL 61548 and Christian Union Church, 925 West Walnut Street, Metamora, IL 61548. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS:

Metamora Grade School Foundation, 815 East Chatham Street, Metamora, IL 61548

Christian Union Church, 925 West Walnut Street, Metamora, IL 61548