Rebecca 'Becky' L. (Irving) Ghrist

Rebecca Lynn Ghrist, 71, of Martinsburg, Illinois, passed away on February 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering support for those she cherished most. Becky was born August 30, 1954, in Pittsfield, Illinois, to Brice and Margaret Mary “Mike” Evans Irving. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Wayne Ghrist, who passed away on January 27, 1997. Becky and Ron were married on December 29, 1977, at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Their love and partnership remained a guiding force throughout her life.

A proud graduate of Pittsfield High School, Becky earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri, becoming the first non-Missouri resident to graduate from its College of Nursing. She devoted her life to caring for others, beginning her nursing career in Macomb and later in Urbana, Illinois. While in Urbana, Becky and Ron found their “second family” among a close-knit group of friends and veterinary school classmates. In 1983, they returned home to Pittsfield, where Becky served Pike County as a nurse with the Pike County Health Department and supported Ron in opening Ghrist Veterinary Clinic. In 1985, Becky became the first full-time school nurse for Pikeland Unit 10 School District, caring for students from elementary through high school. She was a steady, compassionate presence for generations of children, offering not only medical care but also reassurance and understanding. A strong advocate for students and a respected colleague, she later served as union president, leaving a lasting impact on her school community.

After losing her high-school sweetheart at the age of 40, Becky set aside her own grief and poured her strength into raising four strong-willed children and preserving the family farm. Above all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children: Adam (Tracie) Ghrist, Joe (Taryn Bell) Ghrist, Aubrie (Bryan) Hubbert, and Sam (Lexy) Ghrist. She was a proud and loving grandmother (“Mae Mae”) to seven grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. McKenna Ghrist, Brooklyn Ghrist, Abram Ghrist, Ronni Hubbert, Cori Hubbert, Briggs Hubbert, and Harvey Ghrist. She is survived by siblings Rita Irving, Theresa (David) Cooley, Brett (Karen) Irving, and Kelly (Joe) Fackelman; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mother-in-law, Alice Ghrist; Sisters-in-law Karen (Roger) Fox, and Deb (Bob Goby) Ghrist. 

She was her family’s greatest champion and a constant source of encouragement and strength.

In retirement, Becky became a world traveler and treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and loved ones. Becky also found great joy in simple pleasures and lifelong friendships from gathering for morning coffee with friends, enjoying quilting sessions, or participating in her afternoon bowling league. Her days were full, her heart was generous, and her friendships were deep and lasting. Becky was willing to be a friend to anyone, and a friend of Becky’s knew what friendship meant. 

Becky lived a full and meaningful life. She had a deep faith in Christ and started each day with prayer. She was a prayer warrior for friends and family in need, keeping a long list of prayers and petitions. At the end, she was ready to meet her savior and be reunited with the man she set out to marry when she was in 8th grade. She leaves behind many dear friends and loved ones who will forever cherish her warmth, laughter, and selfless spirit. She was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents, Brice and Margaret “Mike” Irving; husband Ron Ghrist; brothers, Robert Brice Irving in infancy, and Brice L. Irving; sister Margaret “Miki” Irving. 

Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL with interment at the Pittsfield West Cemetery.  A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM - 7:00PM.  Memorials are suggested to be made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure or the every. little. thing. Program.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.   

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