Karla Rae Fizer McCulloch, 70, of Jacksonville, Illinois, passed away Monday, February 2, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

She was born February 6, 1955, in Odessa, MO, the daughter of Roy Taylor Jr. and Georgia Alene (Dyer) Fizer. She married Gary McCulloch on July 20, 1973, and he survives.

She is also survived by her son, Justin (Jeri) McCulloch of Industry; daughter-in-law, Jade (Mike) Woods of Jacksonville; grandchildren, Brock, Brant "Rudy", Landon, and Kendra McCulloch; sister, Kay Lueck of Odessa, MO; brother, Mike (Edie) Fizer of Linneus, MO; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son, Brett McCulloch; parents; siblings, Beverly Yates and Doug Fizer; and brother-in-law, Dale Lueck.

Karla graduated from Odessa High School in Missouri in 1973, and she and Gary married shortly after. She worked as a secretary at Green Ready Mix Concrete and then at Higginsville Habilitation Center, both in Higginsville, MO, for several years before moving to Jacksonville. She then worked in the administrative office of the Village of South Jacksonville Water Department. More recently, Karla worked as the secretary for Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, where she and Gary were members. She was a part of the Women's IF Group, Sunday School and Bible Study Group at the church. Karla was also member of the Rushville Saddle Club.

Karla enjoyed horseback riding and water activities, like boating with the family. She was also a talented quiltmaker and loved to snuggle with her dog, Sophie. Karla also loved to watch her grandchildren's activities and support them.

Karla's wishes were to be cremated. There will be a celebration of life at 12 Noon, Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, with a visitation from 10am – 12pm prior to the service. Burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.