(nee Eckstrom) – Of the Inn at Willow Falls, formerly of New Lenox, Joliet, Chicago and Valparaiso, Indiana, passed away peacefully at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home, with her family by her side, Sunday, October 11, 2009. Age 85 years. \r\n\r\nBeloved wife of 59 years of the late George W. Pierson; Wonderful loving mother of the Honorable Susan (Peter) Sonderby of Chicago, Sharon (David) Cavanaugh of Channahon, Robert (Patricia) Pierson of New Lenox and Ronald (Leah) Pierson of Palos Park; cherished and proud grandmother of Kristina (Michael) O'Malley, Michael Pierson, Paige Pierson, Daniel (JoAnn) Cavanaugh, Julie (Michael) Miller, Ben, Scott and John Pierson; and step grandchildren Kathy (Richard Ross) Sonderby, Christopher (Jill) Sonderby and Jennifer (Seth Blacher) Sonderby; adoring great-grandmother of Konner, Jack and Alex O'Malley, Owen and Lily Cavanaugh, Caroline Miller and step great-grandmother of Max and Madeline Sonderby, Eliza, Lauren and Graham Ross and Ari Blacher. \r\n\r\nHer dear brothers Leonard Eckstrom and Robert Eckstrom preceded her in death.\r\n\r\nShirley was known for her love of family and friends. She was an active member of The First Presbyterian Church and Mary Circle within the church. Member of the Advisory Board of Silver Cross Hospital, Volunteer at the ENCORE Shop of Silver Cross Hospital, Women's Club of Joliet, Patron member of the Joliet Holly Club and the Live, Love and Learn Book Club.\r\n\r\n