Mrs. Virginia Fern Guse, age 96, formerly of Collinsville, Ill., passed away peacefully the morning of Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Promenade Senior Living, St. Louis, Mo. She was born April 30, 1929, in Troy, Ill., the daughter of the late Irwin and Estelle Helmich.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, John F. Guse, Sr.; a dear sister Elaine; and brothers Earl, Clyde and Ray.

She was a member of St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville and a homemaker. She spent innumerable hours loving and caring for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Virginia is survived by two daughters and two sons: Anne (Bill) Chao of St. Louis, Mo., John (Robin) Guse, Jr., of Troy, Ill., Paul (Kay) Guse of St. Jacob, Ill., and Beth (Terry Erickson) Guse of Highland, Ill.; a brother, Kenneth, of Levittown, Penn.; 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss her beautiful smile.

Funeral services are private, with celebration-of-life plans pending.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the charitable organization of your choosing.