Emma Rebecca “Becky” Ishmael
Emma Rebecca “Becky” Ishmael, 74, of Springfield, died Sunday, August 14, 2022, at her home, surrounded by loved ones. She was born July 12, 1948 in Jacksonville, to Wilbur and Felicia DeFrates.
She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Sonny) Gentry of Springfield; her son, Derek Ishmael of Springfield; three grandchildren, Trista (Josh), Adrian, and Michael; her sister, Loraine (Jerry) Lewis of Jacksonville; her brother, Jerry (Marilyn) DeFrates of Jacksonville; her former spouse Fred (Toni) Ishmael; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Richard “Dick” DeFrates; one niece and four nephews.
Becky graduated from JHS, Class of 1966. She was active in reunion planning for many years.
She enjoyed helping others; she attended Flamingo beauty school, and was a stay-at-home mom for a time, but her passion was healthcare. She worked at Holy Cross Hospital, Passavant Area Hospital, and Springfield Clinic. She found her calling when she became a massage therapist; working at Walton Clinic of Chiropractic and Frisina Family Wellness, as well as her own business, Touch to Recovery.
She was a lifelong member of Central Christian Church in Jacksonville, where she sang in the choir and served in the church.
Becky was a light in this world; she had a bright smile and delightful laugh. She loved music, dancing, and singing. Once she was your friend, you had her for life. She was generous and loved her family deeply. When she was down or made mistakes, she would always end up picking herself up and getting on with life. Becky was always on the go, whether taking trips, shopping, seeing musicals and plays, constantly working, or supporting her beloved grandchildren in their activities. She will be greatly missed.
The family would like to thank HSHS St. John’s Hospital (4th Floor) and Kindred Hospice for their loving care.
Visitation: 4 – 7 pm, Friday, August 19, 2022 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Additional visitation: 10 – 12 am, Saturday, August 20 at Central Christian Church in Jacksonville, followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon from 12 – 2.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Christian Church in Jacksonville, Alzheimer’s Association or Simmons Cancer Institute.
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