Lura Joan (Wright) Cordes

Lura Joan (Wright) Cordes, 89, formerly of Washburn, IL, entered Heaven on Monday, September 1, 2025, at Snyder Village, in Metamora, IL, which had been her home since 2007.  She was surrounded by the love of her family and her assurance in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.

Lura was born on a farm in Malta, IL on December 17, 1935. She graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in music education.  She moved to Washburn, IL to teach.  There, she met Gene Wesley Cordes, and they were wed on June 4, 1960.

In addition to being a homemaker, Lura taught piano lessons and played for many of her children's events.  She enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening, and other crafts. She also was a loving caregiver to multiple relatives as they aged.  She and Gene set a Godly example for their children by serving in various ministries at Grace Presbyterian Church.  She served as the Vacation Bible School director for several years during the 1980s.

She is survived by her children, Jo Ellyn (Paul) Zenisek of Racine, WI, Amy (Phil) Lewis of Columbia, MO, Brian (Karen) Cordes of East Peoria, IL, Stephen (Julie) Cordes of Bartonville, IL, and Dale (Angie) Cordes of Whites Creek, TN. There are 16 grandchildren, Rachel, Lauren, Trevor, Andrea, Paige, Samantha, Zachary, Janelle, Brad, Kara, Timothy, Jonathan, Alex, Jacob, Dorothy "Dot", and Caroline. There are also 10 great-grandchildren. There is one surviving sister, Marjorie (Arne) Thompson of Westerville, OH.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gene, and four siblings, Hardin, Kenneth, Florence, and Carol.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, September 12, 2025 at Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, IL with Pastor John Hopwood officiating.  Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until service time, also on Friday at the church.  Burial will be held in Linn-Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Washburn, IL.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Grace Presbyterian Church Children's Ministry in honor of her service as VBS Director, 8607 State Route 91, Peoria, IL 61615.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

Grace Presbyterian Church
8607 State Route 91, Peoria IL 61615