Ardythe Alene Salisbury, 81, lifelong resident of Rutland, passed away suddenly on Monday (April 28, 2008).

A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Sunday at Calvert & Froelich Memorial Home, Toluca. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. prior to the service. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to Rutland First Responders or the family.

She is survived by her husband, Ed, and daughter, Kathy (Duane) Knepp, all of Rutland. Surviving grandchildren are Katrina (Richard) Montgomery, Rutland; Amanda Knepp, Bloomington; Victoria (Craig) Hock, Rutland; and Krystina (Tate) Allen, Rutland. Also surviving are her great-grandchildren, Cyleste, Saireena, Decker and KaTesa Montgomery; McKoy and Tayli Allen; Graci and Gavin Hock, all of Rutland; and Simone and Lacie Behary, Bloomington. Ardythe was preceded in heaven by her parents and a son, Tom. Tom's children and grandchildren survive.

Ardythe, born March 30, 1927, Streator, was the daughter of Honas Harm Decker and Mary Zillah McKay Decker. She eloped with Ed Salisbury on April 29, 1950, in Pigot, Ark. Later to be joined in a ceremony with family and friends on June 4, 1950, at the Antioch Christian Church, Toluca. She graduated from Rutland High School and then attended Bradley University for two years. Ardythe was a proud homemaker, who took pride in taking care of her family. She served as a cook for several area restaurants and the Rutland schools. She decorated cakes for many years and was an avid painter. Ardythe was well known for her ability and enjoyment in teaching piano lessons to others, including her grandchildren.

To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren she was known as Gram, who loved to bake, give hugs and make them laugh.

She was the rock for her daughter and they shared a special friendship. She was a loving and caring wife to Ed for 58 years. They enjoyed dinners together, dancing and being with their family. Their love was unique and true.

Ardythe will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her spirit will live forever in all of them. Heaven has received a gift like no other.