Sara S. Zeabart

Sara S. Zeabart, 79, died unexpectedly on Friday, January 27,2023 at BroMenn Medical Center in Bloomington, IL.  Her family is shocked and deeply saddened by her death.

She is survived by her children, Joan Loftus of Arrowsmith, IL, Jean Freeman of El Paso, IL, Jane (John) Krueger of El Paso, IL; two sisters, Katie Brown and Jane Catt both of Vincennes, IN; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Her memory will live on forever with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Norbert and Mary (Whitmer) Zeabart; four sisters, Norma, Betty, Mary and Margaret; and one grandson, Jay Michael Freeman.

Sara loved her family dearly and her children were the light of her life.  She played an active role in her grand and great-grandchildren’s lives through babysitting, teaching them games, working jig saw puzzles and sharing her advice about life.  She always wanted to provide the best possible life for her girls.  She became a reluctant part of the feminist movement by fighting for and doing “a man’s job at a man’s wage” in a factory.  She broke the glass ceiling for the many women that followed behind her.

Sara’s “always be prepared” attitude gave rise to her home being referred to as “Sara’s Mercantile”. Another get it done philosophy was echoed in her words, “it will only take a minute”.

Sara lived a simple life of honesty and integrity and had an unmovable moral compass.  Though her heart of this world may have failed, her spirit will carry on in her family.

Per Sara’s wishes, cremation will be accorded.  Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in El Paso is assisting the family with arrangements.  Private services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Christyn’s Place, a charity organization in Vincennes, IN that was close to Sara’s heart.  Send contributions to:  The Vincennes Rotary Foundation in memory of Sara Zeabart for Christyn’s Place, P.O. Box 71, Vincennes, IN 47591.

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.