Anne Loretto Molinarolo

     Anne Loretto Molinarolo, age 68, of Muddy, Illinois passed away at 11:20 PM on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Herrin Hospital.  She was blessed to be visited by many of her truly dear friends and family.

     Anne was born in Belleville on February 21, 1957 to the late John and Eleanor (Jarvis) Molinarolo.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Harrisburg.  Anne was an anomaly and possessed the will of an oxen.  Whether the will came naturally, or due to her disabling birth, Anne was a fighter.  She was intelligent, witty and beautiful, with almost a photographic memory.  Anne was an avid reader.  She played percussion in the band and participated in 4H.  Anne received a BA in Communications from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama.  Her first job was working for a major television network as a producer.  Anne was invited to the inauguration of Ronald Reagan in 1980 for her dedicated service to the republican party. 

     A devoted Catholic, she made two trips to Medjugorje Bosnia to see the site of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  During one trip her group was hijacked by rebels for their medical supplies.  She said they threatened them while the group prayed the rosary for nine hours before releasing them, with their supplies.      

     Upon retirement in 2014 as a public servant for almost 20 years, she moved back to Muddy to be near family and friends, knit blankets for friends, family and charities, and be the local cat lady to Bonnie, Bastet, Zeus, Gus and Leo.

     Anne is survived by her son, Clay Bertlesman and wife, Megan of Swansea; brother, Vince Molinarolo and Jenny Harrison of Muddy; sister, Patrice Molinarolo of Muddy; two nephews, Max of Herod and Hayden of St. Louis; aunt, Frances Bertino of Muddy; six first cousins, Julie Arsta, Mark Molinarolo; Matthew Molinarolo; Dominic Bertino and wife Kara, Chip Martin and husband, Jeff; Tony Bertino and wife, Leeann; and five adoring cats.

     Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Anne Loretto Molinarolo at 11 AM on Monday, July 7, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Harrisburg.  Father Christian Iwuagwu will officiate and burial follow at Sunset Lawn Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 9 AM to 10:30 AM, Monday, July 7, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Harrisburg with a Rosery Service beginning at 10:30 AM.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Finding Forever Animal Rescue and envelopes will be available at the church.  

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