Jeanne S. Ludwig (90) of Naples, FL, formerly of Effingham

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Jeanne S. Ludwig. Jeanne passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her adoring family, on Wednesday, September 6, at the age of 90.

Born in Effingham, Illinois on August 3rd, 1933, to the late Ernest and Mabel Stuckey, Jeanne was the second of three children. Her journey through life was marked by a deep commitment to education and an unwavering love for her family and community. She graduated from Effingham High School and pursued her passion for education at Eastern Illinois University, where she graduated in 1955 with a degree in Home Economics.

During her high school senior year, Jeanne met the love of her life, Kenneth Ludwig. They married in their senior year of college and their 72 years together would take them from Iowa to Oklahoma and around Illinois before settling in McHenry, Illinois to raise their three boys – Roger, Kenne, and Thomas.

In McHenry, Jeanne would dedicate 35 years of her life to local students as a grade school teacher. Together as educators, Jeanne and Ken became beloved members of the community, leaving an indelible mark on all those they touched. Jeanne was a talented pianist and organist, a skill learned from her mother who played piano for the family’s silent movie theater. She loved playing at church, where her grandchildren delighted in running up to the choir loft after mass to push in the stops.

As a mother to three energetic boys, a coach’s wife, and an unwavering Chicago sports enthusiast, Jeanne's life often revolved around the world of athletics. She became a fixture at thousands of ballgames over the years, passionately cheering on her boys and her favorite teams. When she wasn't in the stands as the ultimate fan, you could find her alongside Ken enjoying martinis during happy hour, surrounded by friends and family.

Upon retirement, Jeanne and Ken embraced their dream in relocating to the sunny neighborhood Royal Wood in Naples, Florida, where they became original owners in Andover Square. Jeanne immersed herself in community activities and played a pivotal role in launching the tennis program. Her passion for tennis, golf, music, and the cherished friendships she cultivated in this vibrant community filled her days with joy. Jeanne affectionately referred to her Florida home as "paradise."

In addition to her active involvement in the community, Jeanne assumed leadership roles serving as president of both tennis and 18-hole golf associations. She joined the Royal Wood Ladies Choir and was a regular special guest in the Blowhard singing group, providing countless evenings of entertainment for her community.

Jeanne is survived by her devoted sons Roger (Barbara) of Bentonville, Arkansas; Kenne (Christine) of Naples, Florida; and Thomas (Edye) of Aurora, Illinois. Her legacy lives on through her six beloved grandchildren: Shea, Phillip (Lauren), Lindsey, Benjamin, Josh (Kristen) and Ryan, as well as her seven cherished great-grandchildren: Penelope, Cecilia, Hunter, Liesl, Konrad, Lana, and Oliver.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband and two brothers, Robert and Phillip.

The Ludwig family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the Royal Wood Community for the boundless love and support they have received throughout the years.

In celebration of Jeanne's vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to all who knew her, let us raise our glasses and say, "All in favor of having a drink, say aye, aye, aye!" as a joyful tribute to a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever grace our hearts.

In her memory, we find solace and inspiration to embrace each day with the same love, zest, and passion that Jeanne so beautifully exemplified throughout her remarkable life. 

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with burial in Oakridge Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham. Online condolences may be expressed by clicking here.