Jo Ellen Cairns' Obituary
Jo Ellen Cairns passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. She was born July 10, 1948, in Decatur, Illinois. She is the daughter of Alfred L. Burkett and Mary J. Burkett. Survivors include her fiancé, Phil Tucker of the home; son, Bill (Sarah) Pierce of Benton, AR’; brother, Andy (Anne) Burkett of Edwardsville, IL; sister, Judy Burkett of Decatur, IL; grandchildren, Ryan (Susannah) Pierce of Macon, and Aaron (Taylor) Pierce of Shelbyville, IL; 7 great-grandchildren; Phil’s daughter, Dana (Jon) Robnett; and his grandchildren, Lauryn, Tucker, and Kate Robnett. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Jo Ellen graduated from Eisenhower High School in Decatur, IL, in 1966. She was an executive secretary for Decatur Memorial Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital. She volunteered at Scovill Zoo, working the carousel. She also volunteered at DOVE and the surgical waiting room at Decatur Memorial Hospital. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and Kiwanis Club, where she previously served as the president. She was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Decatur Pride softball, and Elvis Presley. She loved to read, complete crossword puzzles, and Fort Myers Beach.
Condolences and memorials may be shared with the family at https://www.moranandgoebel.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kiwanis Club in Decatur, IL, American Lung Association, or donor’s choice.
Due to her wishes, there will be no services.
What’s your fondest memory of Jo?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jo?
Share a story where Jo's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jo you’ll never forget.
How did Jo make you smile?