Tribute & Message From The Family

Vera Lorraine Jourdan, age 84, passed away peacefully at 10:30 am on Thursday, August 6, 2015 at St. Clara's Manor in Lincoln, Illinois.

Vera was born on January 19, 1931 to Shelby Lloyd and Geneva Snider Matthews in St. Louis, Missouri.

She graduated from Webster High School in St. Louis. Vera served as secretary at the churches where her husband ministered. She owned and operated the Mod-O-Day dress shop in Salem. Always an active supporter of Christian missionaries, she even smuggled Bibles on a trip to Russia in the early 1970s. She also worked alongside her husband in refurbishing houses in his real estate business. Vera volunteered for many years as a Pink Lady at Salem Memorial Hospital. Later, she volunteered with Contact Ministries in Springfield and was acknowledged as their top volunteer. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren.

She Is survived by her son, Michael Jourdan of Florida; her daughter, Suzann Welch and husband Nicholas of Williamsville; grandchildren: Jordan Leuschke and wife Michelle (daughter Olivia), Bricklin Welch, Hunter Welch, Tiffany Jourdan, and Jasmine Jourdan; great-granddaughter, Adalynn Jourdan; siblings: John (Alice) Matthews, Shirley Williams, Mary (Willis) Anderson, James (Carol) Matthews, and William Matthews; and many nieces, nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Betty Porter, Herbert Matthews, and Leah Nugent; ex-husband Ivan Jourdan; and her beloved daughter, Vicki Lynn Jourdan.

A family memorial will be held at a later date. Voluntary acts of kindness and love would be a fitting tribute to this very special mother, sister, grandmother and friend.

Cremation was accorded by Lincoln Land Cremation Society.

Condolence & Memory Journal

Grandma you were such a sweet soul. You were always there for me throughout my life and I have so many great memories . You continue to live on in our hearts each and every day. We love and miss you eternally.

Posted by Jordan - Grandchild August 06, 2021

Hi Mom,
I miss you, Dad, and Vicki so much. I am grateful that you all did not have to experience the 2020 and 2021 pandemic that has impacted the World.
Your brothers John and Bill have joined you in heaven this year. I hope you all have joy and love surrounding you.
Love always!
Suzi

Posted by Suzann Welch - Williamsville, IL - Daughter August 05, 2021

Hi Mom,
I cannot believe it's been 4 years since you left. I still miss you daily. You would be so proud of your grandchildren, they are growing into fine young men and women. Please give hugs and kisses to Vicki and Dad!
Love you always....
Suzi

Posted by Suzann Welch - Williamsville, IL - Daughter August 06, 2019

It's your second birthday in Heaven! Just wanted you to know I love you and miss you! Give Dad and Vicki my love!
Suzi

Posted by Suzann Welch - Springfield, IL - Daughter January 19, 2017

Happy First Birthday in Heaven. I remember your last few birthdays. I miss you! I am sure this one will be glorious. Love you, Suzi

Posted by Suzann Welch - Springfield, IL - daughter January 19, 2016