PERCY – Carolann Pearl Bilderback, 85, passed away on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, after a short illness. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She was born Carolann Pearl Helfers, on April 26, 1939, at home in Percy, IL, to Walter F. and Marguerite (Loyd) Helfers, the eldest of three children. Carol attended Percy Grade School and graduated from Trico High School in 1957, as Valedictorian. She married John Frederick Bilderback on March 30, 1957, and they continued to be sweethearts until his passing December 9, 2013. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Henry F. Helfers.

Johnny and Carol were the proud parents of one daughter, Gwenith Lea Podeschi (husband John), of Taylorville, and one son, Kenneth Lee Bilderback of Percy. Also surviving are her grandchildren: Emily (Maxx) Craggs of Taylorville, and Mark (Priscilla) Podeschi of Long Grove; great granddaughters, Iris Craggs and Claire Podeschi. Her sister, Thelma Jean Short of New Athens also survives, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Carol was a homemaker for many years and also worked for Community Care. Highlighting her life was Johnny's musical performances, her quilting, and her plants. She loved dining out and meeting her many friends. Knowing what her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were up to was guaranteed to make her happy. Mom was a natural-born engineer, coming up with ways to solve problems and do things that her skills in sewing, painting, and cooking, helped her carry out. She was a strong and independent woman and will be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be on Monday, August 26, 2024, at 12:30 pm, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Steeleville, IL, with Rev. James Tinzmann officiating. Burial to follow at Percy Village Cemetery, Percy, IL. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 26, 2024, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Steeleville, IL, where friends may call from 11:00 – 12:30 pm. Memorials may be given to Wesley United Methodist Church, Percy, IL or Peace Lutheran Church, Steeleville, IL, and can mailed in c/o Wilson's Funeral Home, PO Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.