Bernitia Irene (Clayton) Ward

Bernitia Irene Ward, 92, of Hillsboro, passed away peacefully at 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Montgomery Nursing and Rehabilitation in Taylor Springs, Illinois. Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and the family will gather for a Celebration of Life at a later date.

She was born February 23, 1933, in Blue Mound, Illinois, to Harry R. and Bernitia M. (Ahern) Clayton. A lifelong resident of Montgomery County, she graduated from Litchfield High School in 1951. She later married Charles Eickhoff with whom she raised her family. They subsequently divorced. She was later married, and divorced, Howard Ward.

For many years, Bernitia dedicated herself to being a devoted wife and mother before returning to work as a school bus driver. She faithfully transported generations of children to school and sporting events, retiring in 2004 after 30 years of service.

Bernitia was known for her kindness, warmth, and love for family. She cherished adventures with loved ones, always organizing picnics for her children at local parks when they were young or meeting up with friends for fun activities, which were always followed by lunch and laughter. She would often visit her son Glenn during his time working with the Clydesdales, something that she really enjoyed.  She was active and social, and her family was always her greatest joy. She loved birdwatching, gardening, canning, and keeping fit. A talented seamstress, she made clothing for her children and mended countless pairs of jeans with her signature creativity. She also loved to dance and was a proud member of the Senior Achievers and one of the “Jubelt girls.”

Preceding her in death are her parents, Harry & Bernitia; her former husbands, Charles Eickhoff and Howard Ward; daughter, Kay Morrow; siblings, Betty Lou in infancy, Raymond and wife, Jean, Nelda and her husband, Norman, Anna Belle and her husband, Berry.

Surviving Bernitia are her children, Glenn (Roxanne) Eickhoff of Lexington, KY., Jo Ann (John Clevenger) Warrenfeltz of Canton, GA., Nancy (Scott) Lowe of Hillsboro, Il., Larry Eickhoff of Butler, Il., Tony (Donna) Eickhoff of Hillsboro, Il.; eight grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sister, Jane (Henry) Nail of Litchfield, Il.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked to donations be made to: Imagine Hillsboro c/o Central Park Pool, PO Box 234, Hillsboro, Il., 62049 and/or PAWS Care 1123 School St., Hillsboro, Il. 62049.

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