Annie Mae Shrum went home to Jesus Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at her home of rural Keithsburg, Illinois, age 81.

Annie was born to Burl and Dorothy Shepard Herring on January 31, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri.  She became quite the seamstress at an early age creating her own dresses and wardrobe. Annie had a great reputation in the community as a housekeeper. She met her husband, James Shrum (the love of her life) in the month of October, 1963 while having lunch with her father at the Wood Inn of Carthage, Illinois.  After a whirlwind romance, they later married on February 2, 1964, in Carthage, Illinois having four children.

Annie was a housewife most of her life. She lived in Carthage, Illinois and Media, Illinois before moving to her current residence near Keithsburg. She enjoyed board games and playing cards, the company of her cat 'Miss Kitty', and visiting with her friends and neighbors.  When in Media, she was a member of the Media Bells and attended the Media Presbyterian Church. Annie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who dedicated her life to her family. She is remembered for her positive personality and always willing to lend a hand. She was passionate about baking, sewing, crafting, and always being there with a warm embrace. Her pride and joy were her children, and she cherished the time spent with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband of 61 years -- James D. Shrum, one son-- Harold (Barbara) Shrum of Stronghurst, one daughter-- Juliea Love of Greenville, KY, eight grandchildren-- Dustin (Bonnie) Portillo, Thais (Larry) McCord, Frankie Portillo, Reissa Portillo, Hannah (Tim) Sirovy, Sarah Shrum (11/12/2001 – 11/06/2022), Isabelle Love, Zoeyanna Love, and nine great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents – Dorothy and Burl Herring, twin daughters-- Anna Jean and Anna Jane Shrum, one sister, Dorothy Pulliam, and one granddaughter, Sarah Shrum.

A graveside service will be held for Annie at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage, Illinois, Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with Quentin Peterson officiating. A "Celebration of Life" is planned at Los Charros, Carthage, Illinois following at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the memorial fund which has been established for the Oquawka Ambulance Service.  Banks & Beals Funeral Home of Stronghurst is assisting the family. Please visit Annie's obituary at banksandbeals.com to leave a condolence.