Beverly Ann (Close) Kaisner, 91, of Pontiac, IL, went to Heaven on November 4, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 6, 1935, in Rockford, IL to James and Bernice (Bradshaw) Close, Beverly lived a life rooted in faith, family, and love for others.

Beverly graduated from Pontiac Township High School in 1953. She married Raymond Johnson on June 27, 1954. After his passing on May 15, 1959, she later married Duane Kaisner on March 8, 1963, and he passed March 10, 1998.

She is survived by her three daughters: Peggy (Mike) Zupansic of Pontiac, Illinois; Barbara (David) Friese of Flanagan, Illinois; and Susan (Brian) Fehr of Fairbury, Illinois. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Melissa (Eric) Horning, Megan (Mark) Donovan, Molly Boudouris, Jared (Caitlyn) Friese, Emily Friese, and Ashley (Jacob Davis) Fehr; and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom were a special part of her life.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husbands, five siblings, Robert Close, James Close, Ellen Fitzgerald, Mary Ellis, and Esther Casson, and her beloved grandson, Drew Fehr.

A faithful Christian, Beverly’s relationship with God was at the center of her life. She was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac, where she devoted 50 years to teaching Sunday School. Her faith was more than something she practiced on Sundays; it was reflected in the way she lived, the kindness she showed others, and the love she shared with her family. She leaves behind a legacy of faith that will continue through the generations of her family.

Throughout her life, Beverly wore many hats. She worked as a bookkeeper at the Bank of Pontiac, dedicated herself to being a homemaker, and helped her husband with his farm and real estate businesses. Above all, she cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Beverly was known for her calm and loving nature, her independence, and her generous heart. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, whether tending to her flower beds, spending time with family, watching tennis, reading a good book, or cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events. She was also an incredible cook, and her world-famous monster cookies will undoubtedly be remembered and missed by everyone lucky enough to enjoy them.

Beverly’s life was a beautiful reflection of her faith, her love for her family, and her generous spirit. The lessons she taught, the meals she shared, the cookies she baked, and the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Drew Fehr Memorial Fund, First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, SELCAS, or OSF Hospice.

A funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac. Pastor JD Buchenau will be officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services on Saturday at the church. A private graveside service will take place at a later time.