Selma M. Warnecke, age 104, of Highland, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Trenton Village in Trenton, IL.
She was born on December 16, 1921, in Highland, the daughter of the late John and Augusta (nee Gantner) Metzger.
On May 15, 1945, she married Eldo Warnecke in Highland, he preceded her in death on April 6, 2003.
Selma is survived by her children, Gary (Lulia) Warnecke of Manchester, MO and Carol (Gary) Schwend of Trenton; grandchildren, Jason (Michelle) Warnecke, Shana (Chris) Bailey, Shelley LaCaze, Stephanie (Bob) Morietta, Ethan & Noah Warnecke, Charlie & Katherine Bailey, Ella & Maddox LaCaze and Keegan Schroedter.
She is preceded in death by her husband; siblings, Calvin (Edith) Metzger, Henry Metzger and Elmer (Betty) Metzger; parents-in-law, Albert and Elizabeth Warnecke; brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law, Duane Warnecke, Lester Warnecke, Leona Foehner, Elvin Warnecke, Edna Frey, Lloyd Warnecke, Vernon Warnecke, Lester Warnecke and Earl Warnecke.
Selma lived a remarkably full and vibrant life. Her legacy is defined by an unwavering dedication to her faith, a deep love for her community, and a gentle, nurturing spirit. For many years, Selma served as the beloved caretaker for the Spindler family, offering them her characteristic warmth and devotion. Deeply rooted in her faith, she was a dedicated, lifelong member of the Evangelical United Church of Christ, where she spent decades sharing her love of God as a Sunday school teacher.
Selma found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid card player in local clubs, a talented baker, and a skilled creator who loved quilting, crocheting, and completing puzzles. She also possessed a wonderful green thumb, spending countless happy hours tending to her vibrant flowers and watching the hummingbirds visit her garden. Selma’s 104 years were a beautiful masterclass in faith, love, and service, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland. Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. William Kapp, Pastor, presiding.
Interment will follow at Highland City Cemetery, Highland.
In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to Evangelical United Church of Christ or Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 1501 9th St., Highland, IL 62249, which is serving the family.
Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family at www.mossfuneralhome.com.
