Nelda C. Emert, 96, of Bethalto, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, peacefully at her home.
She was born on September 4, 1928, the eldest daughter of Guy and Barbara (Bulan) Kroener, in Oakdale, IL. Nelda married Irvin John Emert on August 28, 1953, at the Presbyterian Church in Vandalia, IL. He preceded her in death on December 15, 2017.
Nelda attended a one-room country school where she later began her teaching career. She graduated from Okawville Community High School in 1946 and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1962, with a major in elementary education. She taught a total of 35 years, retiring in 1986. The last 25 years she taught first and second grades at Cottage Hills School in the Bethalto Community 8 District.
Nelda was a member of the Madison County Retired Teachers, IEA, NEA, The Alpha Eta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, and the Bethalto Presbyterian Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, elder, pianist, and organist. She enjoyed reading, solving crossword puzzles, gardening, trips to Branson, and family time which always involved her homemade cooking. Nelda lived her life simply and humbly.
Surviving are a daughter, Nancy R. (Steven) Bivens of Bethalto; a brother, Curtis Kroener of Oakdale, IL; her favorite grandson, Michael (Shannon) Bivens of Glen Carbon; and three beloved great-grandchildren, Eloise, Aria, and Connor Bivens.
Preceding her in death in addition to her parents and husband, a brother, Wilmer (Mary Ann) Kroener; and sister, Dorothy (Kenneth) Hood.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 11 am until time of service at 12 pm, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Pastor Jerry Wray will officiate. Inurnment will be private.
Memorials are suggested to the Bethalto Presbyterian Church, The Community Hope Center, or consider performing an act of kindness for a child or someone in need.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
