Obituary of Jean Klaus

Anita "Jean" Klaus, affectionately known as Jean, peacefully passed away on July 31, 2023, at the age of 93 in Brook, Indiana. She was born on July 14, 1930, in Carlinville, Illinois, to Kenneth R. Stayton and Pearl Anita Angelo Stayton. Jean was a farm wife working beside her husband Bob whom she married on August 26, 1951. For over 50 years they farmed in Honeypoint Township. Surviving daughters are Nancy McClatchey (Ron) of Morocco, Indiana, and Betsy Hodapp (Daniel) of Hoffman, Illinois. She was a loving grandmother to Robert McClatchey (Amber) of Wolcott, Indiana, and Bridget McClatchey of Chicago, Illinois. Jean's great-grandchildren, Carsen McClatchey and Dorothy Jean McClatchey, brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her brother, Dean Stayton (Helen) of Carlinville, Illinois. Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert H. Klaus, her parents Kenneth R. and Pearl Stayton, and siblings Marcella Talley, Oella Fullington, Eldon 'Jack' Stayton, Kenneth Stayton, and Betty Leroy. Jean's vibrant personality and friendly nature made her well-loved in her community. She was fondly known as MaMa K or the Chicken Lady of Honeypoint. Jean was an outgoing and hardworking individual who brought joy to those around her. She was an active member of St. Paul's United Church, where she served in various volunteer roles. Jean was also a long-time member of the Friendly Neighbors Club, Home Extension, and served as a dedicated leader of the Sunnyside of Honeypoint 4-H club for 20 years. She had a talent for sewing, embroidery, and quilting, completing her last quilt at the remarkable age of 92. Her cooking skills were renowned, and she was especially famous for her delicious sugar cookies, which she happily shared with everyone. Later in life, she discovered a love for coloring and became an avid coloring artist, sharing her beautiful creations with friends and relatives. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 4th, from 5:00 - 8:00PM at the Davis Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville, Illinois. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, August 5th, at 10 AM in St. Paul's United Church of Christ, with burial to follow in Mayfield Cemetery, Carlinville, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's United Church of Christ or the charity of the donor's choice. Jean's legacy of love, hard work, and dedication to her community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home, Carlinville, is in charge of the arrangements.