Seraphin Elaine Stanley

Seraphin Elaine Stanley, our angel here on Earth has passed away at the age of 20 after a lifelong battle with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

 She was born April 7, 2001, and lived in both Galesburg and Wataga, Illinois. She passed away on December 28, 2021 in Chicago.

Where do we begin to describe the happiness, joy and love that Seraphin emanated for all who knew her? Seraphin was the very definition of having never met a stranger. Seraphin had the most infectious smile and laugh. She truly epitomized caring for others and making others happy was what brought her joy. When you think of Seraphin we hope the memories that last and are fondly thought of are her beautiful smile and happiness even against the insurmountable odds she faced throughout her life. Seraphin had a rare gift of always finding the joy in life even under the most dire circumstances.

Seraphin leaves behind a large family that is heartbroken and will miss her beyond words.

Her parents, John and Rachel Stanley of Wataga. Brothers Ethan Stanley of St. Louis, MO and Jackson Stanley of Galesburg. Her sister-in-law, Kelly Stanley, who was her caregiver and Seraphin thought of as her sister. Her two nephews, Griffin and Jason, who brought her so much happiness as she watched them grow and play. Her doting grandparents, Karen and Kurt Farber and Kaarina and James Stanley. Seraphin found great comfort in her animals Áine, Penny, and Lalita who would frequently lay with her to cuddle on her worst days. Seraphin also leaves behind a large extended family including great grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that loved her dearly. Does this give you any ideas?

We want to express our appreciation to the many people who showed care and compassion to Seraphin from teachers, paraprofessionals, nurses, doctors, to friends and neighbors. People always commented on what a beautiful name Seraphin had and I hope that her life will be remembered to help children in the future that are medically complex and why their work and efforts are so meaningful and important. 

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Dwayne Mesecher.

Seraphin was a bright shining light in so many of our lives and her loss is profoundly felt. She was our sunshine and without her our world has dimmed.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Monday, January 3, 2022 at the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory in Knoxville, IL. Funeral Services will follow at 5:00 P.M. on Monday, January 3, 2022 at the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory in Knoxville, IL. Rev. Jordan Knight will officiate. Memorials may be made to the Lennox-Gaustat Syndrome Foundation; the Knoxville High school Life Skills; or Special Olympics of Knox County. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com