Emma Jane Light, 93, of Sheldon passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on January 1, 1933 in Watseka, the daughter of George and Ula Belle (Hootman) Goosey. After Ula Belle’s passing, Bertha Monohon helped raise Emma Jane and her sister. Emma Jane married Harold E. Light in Sheldon on June 24, 1955 and he preceded her in passing on June 15, 2006.
Surviving are two sons, Rick (Shelia) Light of Martinton and Roger (Lori) Light of Sheldon; one daughter, Cindy Schneider of Sharpsburg, GA; one sister, Pat (John) Fredrickson of Kentland; six grandchildren, Alyssa (Shawn) Spalding, Richard Light, Heather Cason, Bridgette (Dave) Thompson, Matt (Abby) Light and Ben (Katy) Light; eighteen great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Emma Jane was preceded in passing by both of her parents; her husband, Harold; one son, Rod Light and daughter in law, Diana Light; and one son in law, Bob Schneider.
Mrs. Light played the piano and organ for over fifty years at the Darrow Church of Christ where she was a member. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Emma Jane was an avid BINGO player, loved her time at the Iroquois Café with the ladies having coffee, and was recognized as the Grand Marshall of the Sheldon Fun Day’s Parade in 2023.
A special thank you on behalf of the family to Autumn Trace Kentland Assisted Living for taking such good care of her there, a heartfelt thank you to Pat Platteter for being such a good caregiver to her at home, and a special thank you to Iroquois Memorial Hospice and the Iroquois Resident Home for their great care in her final days.
Visitation will be from 9:30-11:00 am on Monday, August 10, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Gary Milton officiating. Burial will follow at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or to the family’s wishes.
