Lois was born on June 28, 1955, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville, IL. She was the fifth child of Shirley Ruth, nee Dahm, and Hugh Allen Bevirt. Throughout her life, Lois exemplified resilience and determination. Despite the challenges she faced in her final days, she approached each moment with unwavering faith, a sense of humor, and just the right amount of stubbornness.
Lois cherished her education, graduating with pride from St. Luke Catholic Grade School in 1969, and later from BTHS East as part of the Class of 1973. Her thirst for knowledge led her to McKendree College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She continued to expand her skills, learning to play the piano and becoming proficient in American Sign Language (ASL), which she used to sign at Saturday evening masses and assist at the police department. Lois also found a sense of joy and purpose while volunteering at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.
Professionally, Lois contributed significantly to the City of Belleville, serving with dedication until her retirement from the Belleville Police Department, November 2, 2013. Later she embraced a new opportunity at Tamarack Golf Course, Shiloh, IL, leaving a lasting impact on her colleagues and community.
She is reunited in eternal peace with her beloved parents, Hugh and Shirley, nee Dahm, Bevirt; and her siblings Gregory A. Bevirt, Dianne I. Pierce, and Jeffrey H. Bevirt.
She is survived by her loving sister, Nancy S. (Michael) Kovack of Newburgh, IN;
a sister-in-law, Virginia “Ginnah” (Gregory) Bevirt of Papillion, NE;
and a brother-in-law, Robert A. Pierce of Shiloh, IL.
She is also remembered fondly by her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who were all touched by her kindness and generosity.
In honoring Lois’ memory, the family acknowledges the support of her nephew, Christopher Pierce, Sally and Jon Jonas, Kathy Dahm Lowe, and others who shared in her life’s journey.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Poor Clare Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy, 300 North 60th Street, Belleville, IL 62223. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit the family from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Thursday, April 25, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon Thursday, April 25, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Michael Arockiam and Msgr. John Myler concelebrating.
Burial will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.