Heather Wardlow is an outstanding contributor to Winchester and the surrounding counties.
When I get a chance to see Heather, it’s always at an American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) function and it never fails that she is putting a smile on a Veterans face. She also volunteers her time to the Winchester High School programs and Kiwanis Club. Her family means the world to her and there is not a day that goes by that her contributions do not go unnoticed.
I got a chance to ask Heather why she continues to live in Winchester, this was her response, “I love Winchester for one reason. It’s home. Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved this place. I would go to the elevator with my Grandpa, he ran the elevator there. I remember going to the bank with him and my grandma to see Grammy Peterson. Winchester is home. It’s family. It’s my roots. I think it has been so clear of the meaning of hometown, family, love, caring during this time. So many people have surrounded us with love and support while mom has been here in Peoria.”
Wardlow’s mother, Shirley Roberts, is currently recovering at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Her initial surgery was to remove a tumor located on her pituitary gland. Since that surgery she has had two additional surgeries due to complications.
Wardlow continues, “Whether with, food, financial assistance, or prayer, our community has surrounded us with love and believe me, I feel it and I’m so grateful. It’s my safety net. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for my hometown. Dad Chuck has found his peace here in Scott County. He’s a member of Alsey Baptist Church, VFW and the American Legion. Giving back is so important to him and he’s instilled that in me with his continued service. Veterans Day was harder on him this year. Mom in the hospital. Colonel Mackey in Quincy. Nursing homes closed so he couldn’t honor the veterans in there …”
“I think that’s why I love what I do, career-wise, it all started with the Winchester Elevator … the camaraderie with the farmers, the smell of grain. CGB (Consolidated Grain and Barge Co.) reminds me of home too. It comes full circle, I guess.”
Heather, we value you, as a member of the community, friend, and family. Thank you for all you do!
If you would like to send words of encouragement or well-wishes to Heather’s mother, her address is:
Shirley Roberts
c/o OSF
530 NE Glenoak Ave., Room 3319
Peoria, IL 61367
