Ariah Belle Kurtz

Ariah Belle Kurtz, 83, of Tamaroa, passed away at 8:55 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012 at her residence.

Belle had been a homemaker and had worked as a cook at Fairview Nursing Center in Du Quoin, Gold Plate in Du Quoin and Tamaroa Grade School. She was a member of St. Mark's United Church of Christ in DuBois. She was also a member of the Ladies Aid of the church.

She was born Jan. 31, 1929 at Tamaroa, Ill., the daughter of Clarence W. and Clarissa D. (Queen) Weisel.

She married Homer H. Kurtz on Jan. 29, 1955 at Tamaroa, Ill. and he preceded her in death on Aug.t 28, 2008.

She is survived by three children - Harold Kurtz and wife Paula of Tamaroa, Barbara Dugger and husband Michael of Taylorville and David Kurtz and wife Tina of Du Quoin, two grandsons - Kevin Kurtz of Tamaroa and Paul Kurtz and wife Laura of Sesser, two granddaughters - Randee Kurtz of Tamaroa and Kimberly Dugger of Taylorville, two great grandchildren - Taylor Kurtz of Pinckneyville and Logan Kurtz of Sesser.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one grandson, three brothers and two sisters.

Private graveside services were held at 4:00 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 8, 2012 at the Tamaroa Cemetery with Rev. Tom Ellison officiating.

Burial was in the Tamaroa Cemetery at Tamaroa.

Friends may make memorials to St. Mark's United Church of Christ in DuBois and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa is in charge of arrangements.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.