Esther Fern Burge , 80, of Centralia went to her Heavenly home on October 10, 2025.

She was born on October 25, 1944 in Centralia, IL, the daughter of Loyd & Mabel (Smith) Burge who preceded her in death.  She is also preceded in death by sister Freda Burge, brother Virgil Burge, brother Bert Burge, sister Joyce Hazslip, brother David Burge, nephew Jarrett Burge and niece Lisa Kirgan.  She is survived by brother Paul (Mary) Burge, sisters Lola (Don) McCrory, Vera (Marv) Stevens, Betty (Vern) Kirgan, Beverly (Gary) Cumming, Glenda (Melvin) Rudder, Angie (Mark) Cerfoglio, a special niece and advocate, Norma Kramer, special friends Kathy & Gene Woodward, and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Many thanks to her loving caretakers at Lynwood Estates, Bryan Manor and Kaskaskia Workshop.  Although she had very limited verbal abilities, she could make her wants known and communicate through gestures, signs and facial expressions.  She was very social, loved to help others, and loved visits with friends and family, jewelry, having her hair done, nails painted and attending church services.

She will be cremated with arrangements by Irvin Macz Funeral Home.

In memory of our sweet and loving sister Esther, please pass on love and good deeds to others.

Graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia.

Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Esther Burge with arrangements. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.maczfuneralhomes.com.

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