BIRMINGHAM, Iowa — Charlene Gaye Topping 73, of Birmingham, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Jefferson County Hospital in Fairfield. Born on July 19, 1951, in Dixon, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of Wallace and Pearl Wells Stevens. Charlene's early years were spent in Mount Morris, Illinois, where she later graduated from Mount Morris High School.
Charlene's life was marked by love and companionship. She entered into marriage with Allen Lee McNeeley on December 18, 1970, in Dixon, Illinois. To this union they had a daughter, Christi. The couple moved to Iowa in 1975, which became a significant chapter in her life. Allen passing on April 25, 1993. She found love again and married Dennis Topping on July 29, 1995, in Birmingham.
Known for her dedication and hard work, Charlene spent her adult life cleaning houses, a profession through which she formed lasting bonds, often considering those she worked for as part of her extended family. In 1988, she expanded her working life to include a position at the Libertyville Quick Stop, and later, she served in the dietary department at Jefferson County Hospital.
Charlene's life was enriched by her passion for her family and hobbies. She delighted in spending time with her granddaughters and great-grandchildren and was renowned for her exceptional candy-making skills, often regarded as one of the best in the area. Her crocheted baby blankets were a gift of warmth and comfort to many newborns. An avid reader, Charlene also enjoyed attending children's sporting events and cherished the moments spent visiting with family and friends. Her commitment to her community was evident through her service on the board of the Libertyville Community Center.
Her memory will be lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of nearly 30 years, Dennis Topping; her daughter, Christi Kurtz (Jeff) of Libertyville; her granddaughters, Brittany Calvert (Cole) of Donnellson and Kylie Kurtz (Travis Mook) of Prairie City; her great-grandchildren, Keeley, Baylor, and Thea Calvert and Robert, Lexi and Wilder Mook; two sisters, Angie Burke (Stan) and Brenda Sklavanitis (Jim) all of Mount Morris, IL and numerous extended relatives and friends. Charlene was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband Allen, her mother-in-law Irene Topping, brother-in-law Wesley Topping, and sister-in-law Earnestine Topping.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Charlene's life will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield, with Pastor Phil Campbell officiating. Following the service, a celebration of her life will continue at the Walton Club in Fairfield, starting at 1:00 PM to 4:00 P.M.. The burial of her cremains will take place at a later date in Maple Hill Cemetery in Birmingham. Memorials in Charlene’s honor to the American Cancer Society or the Libertyville Community Center may be left at the funeral home, Walton Club or mailed to the family at 14796 Hwy 1, Birmingham, IA 52535. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com
