Mary Ellen Schroeder, 85, of Hillsboro, died on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.
At her request, there will be no services. Hough-Dean Funeral Home in assisting the family.
Mrs. Schroeder was born on March 2, 1940, in Hillsboro, a daughter of Harold and Thelma (Govaia) Fletcher. She graduated from Hillsboro High School, then attended college for two years. She was employed as a nursing home administrator for 32 years, working in Litchfield, Bloomington, Elgin and Jacksonville, throughout her career. She married John Murphy and together they had four children; they later divorced. She was married to Ellis Wade until his passing. Following his death, she married Dick Schroeder, who preceded her in death. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Hillsboro and Women of the Moose College of Regents in Jacksonville.
She is survived by her sons, Tom (Lori) Murphy of Irving, Mike (Patricia) Murphy of Highland, Tim Murphy and Josh Murphy, both of Hillsboro; grandchildren, Chase (Whitney Williams) Murphy and Chelsey Murphy of Irving, Michael (Nikki) Murphy of Highland, Patrick (Zama) Murphy of Cape Town, South Africa, and Erin Murphy and Mackenzie Murphy, both of Kingsport, TN; great-grandchildren, Vivienne, Colin and Emberly; sister, Jane (Phillip) Brown of Raymond; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and two husbands, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack Fletcher and Carl Fletcher; and one sister, Jean Fletcher.
The family suggests memorials be directed to Harvest of Hope food pantry, 109 S. Hamilton St., Hillsboro, IL 62049.
