Gertrud Carr

Gertrud Carr, 85, of Savanna, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, February 21, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she was cherished by all who knew her.

Born on February 26, 1939, in Ludwigswinkel, Germany, Gertrud was the youngest of thirteen children to Jakob and Maria (Lelle) Jagle. She grew up on the family farm, helping with chores. It was in Ludwigswinkel that she met the love of her life—John Carr. Their love story began in the bar where she worked when John walked in, and she was immediately captivated by his blue eyes. Despite the language barrier, their connection was undeniable, and they married in 1961. Together, they moved to the United States, first to Colorado and later settling in Carroll County, Illinois. After a house fire, they built their forever home in Wacker, where they lived for 40 years until John's passing in 2020.

Gertrud found joy in the simple yet profound aspects of life. She took great pride in her home, enjoying crocheting, baking cookies that her family adored, and tending to her beautiful garden. Her love for flowers and gardening brought color and warmth to her home. Her children fondly remember picking strawberries from the garden, often eating more than they brought inside.

Above all, Gertrud was devoted to her family and faith. She was a loving mother and grandmother whose kindness and generosity touched everyone she met. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and love—a sanctuary where family gathered and memories were made.

Gertrud is survived by her five children, Belinda (Louis Winston) Carr of Savanna, John Carr Jr. of Savanna, Monika (Todd) Manon of Albany, IL, Steven Carr of Moline, IL, and Thomas (Denise) Carr of Clinton, IA; 17 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren; many brothers and sisters; her beloved granddaughter and caregiver, Stefani; and numerous others whom she lovingly embraced as her own.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her daughter, Lolieda; her great-grandson, Anthony Carr; her parents, Jakob and Maria; and several siblings and extended loved ones.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, at the Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Gertrud's legacy of love, faith, and family will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.