Stella J. Burgess

Stella J. Burgess, nee Schiffner, 69, of Fults, IL, passed away September 2, 2026, in Fults, IL. She was born September 17, 1956, in St. Louis, MO.

Stella was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister whose strength, kindness, and devotion to her family touched the lives of those around her. A dedicated and hardworking woman, she retired from Ford after 30 years of service.

Stella was always a cowgirl at heart. She grew up around horses and found great joy in riding and caring for them throughout her life. She also had a special place in her heart for her barn cats and loved caring for them.

Some of Stella's most treasured moments were spent sharing her love of animals with her grandchildren when they came to visit. She patiently taught them how to care for the horses and delighted in riding alongside them through the pasture. Through those special times together, Stella passed down not only her love of animals but also the values of patience, responsibility, and kindness.

Stella is survived by her daughter, Heather and son-in-law, Mike Woodcock; her sister, Jody; her brother, Jay; her beloved grandchildren, Amelia, Charlotte, and Wyatt and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 25 years, Don Burgess; her parents, Evelyn and Floyd Schiffner; and her sister, Sylvia.

Stella will be remembered for her hardworking spirit, her cowgirl heart, her love for her animals and the deep devotion she held for her family. The memories she created--especially those shared with her grandchildren in the pasture--will be cherished for generations to come.

As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to:
Donor's Choice

Services were held at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, Illinois.