Published on November 14, 2025 2:58 pm
Last Updated on November 14, 2025 2:58 pm
Sara Jean Niebrugge, 53, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Champaign, IL.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Effingham, IL. Burial will be in St. Anthony Cemetery in Effingham. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Sara had an immense love for color, especially pink and purple. To celebrate her life and the joy she brought us, we warmly welcome guests to wear these colors in any amount to both the visitation and service.
In lieu of flowers or sympathy gifts for the family, please consider a direct donation to Community Support Systems for Sara’s social group, Intermittent CILA, Community Integration Living Assistance. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.
Sara was born on December 24, 1971, in Effingham, IL, the fourth and youngest child of Norbert and Dorothy (Bourgeois) Niebrugge. She was a graduate of Armstrong Center and was employed at
Community Support Systems. Sara enjoyed spending time with her family, dancing, bingo, painting, and coloring. She also loved watching musicals, especially Sister Act 2. Most importantly, she loved participating in outings with her social group.
Sara is survived by her sisters, Patricia A. (Keith) Willenborg and Mary K. (Paul) Dust; brother, Alan L. (Linda) Niebrugge; nieces and nephews, Nick Willenborg, Rachel (Sam) Smith, Megan Willenborg, Jenna (Eric) Jansen, Emily (Eric) Parker, Bradley (Tyndall) Niebrugge, Brandon (Teal) Niebrugge, Katie (Chris) Weber, and Megan (Mark) Heuerman; great-nieces and great-nephews, Bryar Smith, Elizabeth Willenborg, Cooper and Lena Parker, Liam and Wryn Niebrugge, Stetson and Sterling Niebrugge, Blake and Ryan Heuerman, Ella and Wes Weber; and uncle, Ralph (Ruthie) Bourgeois. In addition to her family members listed above, Sara leaves behind her very special and dear friend, Heidi Hardiek, who was an integral part of the family.
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate team of nurses and caregivers of the Rogers 8 floor at Carle Hospital. Your kindness, dedication, and exceptional care provided immeasurable comfort to Sara and our entire family during her time there.