Susan Ann Gilmere, 94 of Washington, died Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the United Presbyterian Home.

Her body has been cremated, and a private family graveside will be held at a later date at the Elm Grove Cemetery. Beatty-Peterseim Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorials may be designated to the American Legion Post #29 or Paws and More.

Susan was born south of Wayland, Iowa, the daughter of Joseph L. and Anna C. (Hunt) Reschly. She graduated from Wayland High School in 1951 and was united in marriage to Harold Gilmere, July 5, 1953.

Susan worked for many Washington businesses throughout her lifetime, retiring from the Washington County DMV. She served on the Blair House board, was active in the American Legion Auxiliary and the Washington United Methodist Church, taking part in several Appalachian Service Project trips. She enjoyed baking, providing cookies and sewing lap quilts for the veterans at the VA Hospital.

Survivors include her children, Joseph (Deb) Gilmere of Washington, Jerrold (Julie) Gilmere of Iowa City and Beth Freerksen of Henderson, NV; grandchildren, Amanda Gilmere, Megan Gilmere, Kristen (Mike) Hager and Adrienne Gilmere and great-grandson Karson Hager.

She was preceded by her parents, husband Harold, son Jack, siblings Alice Davis, Joanna(infant), Donald, James, Robert, Richard and Catherine Fort.

Born September 29, 1945, in Burlington, IA, she was the daughter of Francis “Snook” and Evelyn (Hartman) Walsh.  She married Robert Hutchinson but later divorced.  On April 28, 1990 she married James Messer.

Romajean started her career at Bennett’s Home Furnishings making drapery.  She later went to work for Champion Spark Plug where she retired after 30 years.

Romajean was the kindest person you ever met.  She had a great attention to detail and excellent organizational skills; both of which aided her greatly in her career and at home.  She loved adding the finishing decorations that allowed her to make her house a home, and maximized comfort for her family.

Romajean loved baking, sewing and making delicious meals for her family.  She loved going to family events, often with a camera in hand and a bag packed to ensure that all the needs of her family were met.  It wouldn’t be a surprise to find a first aid kit and an extra snack packed away for an emergency.

She loved her family deeply, and looked forward to spending as much time with them as she could.  Her kindness, generosity, and attention to detail will be missed, but her legacy will continue on through all who love her.

Survivors include husband of 36 years, James Messer; children, Chelli (John) Schoof, Mindee Hutchinson, Chad Hutchinson, Shelley (Mike) Anderson, and Jodi (Jason) Wenthe; siblings, Lori Steward, Lynette (Scott) Salisbury, Gary Walsh, and Gloria (Ted) Gooch; 10 grandkids, 9 great-grandkids with one on the way; brother-in-law, Carl Carman; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Troy Hutchinson; sister, Rosemary Carman; sister-in-law, Mary Walsh; and brother-in-law, Ron Steward.

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.

The funeral service for Mrs. Messer will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street with Father Carl Mann officiating.  A time of food and fellowship will follow in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service.  Romajean will be laid to rest with a private ceremony at Forest Home Cemetery in Mt. Pleasant.

Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Romajean’s obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.”

Robert (Bob) Willits, 96, of Mt. Pleasant, died Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Addington Place, Mt. Pleasant.  Arrangements are pending at Elliott Chapel, New London.