Mattoon, IL Obituary – Amanda Marie (Burwell) Prater, age 52, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital in Mattoon, Illinois.
Amanda Marie (Burwell) Prater was born on July 2, 1973 in Mattoon, IL, the cherished daughter of Harold Eugene and Brenda Faye (Lawyer) Burwell. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and loyal friend who touched the lives of many through her kindness, generosity, and warm spirit.
Amanda married the love of her life, James “Jim” Roy Prater, on December 31, 1994, and together they built a beautiful life centered around family, faith, and community. She was passionate about her role as Vice President of the Area Educational Credit Union in Mattoon, where she served with integrity and dedication, building meaningful relationships with colleagues and clients alike.
Amanda’s legacy lives on through her loved ones, including her husband Jim Prater of Mattoon, IL; her children T.J. (Jamie) Prater of Chrisman, IL, Allison (Ian) Fauke of Oceanside, CA, Asher Prater of Mattoon, IL and Arabella Prater of Mattoon, IL; her grandson Matthew Prater of Chrisman, IL; and her sister Rebecca Coon (Roger Barrett) of Mattoon, IL. She was preceded in death by her grandparents John and Ella Lawyer, and her father-in-law, Roy Prater.
Amanda had a joyful spirit and a heart for simple pleasures that brought smiles to those around her — from camping trips and watching crime documentaries to enjoying time with her beloved pets. Her favorite indulgence was a cold Diet Cherry Coke, and she lived life with a generous heart, always ready to support and uplift others. Above all, her family and children were the center of her world.
Funeral and Visitation Information:
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at Schilling Funeral Home in Mattoon. A funeral service honoring Amanda’s life will begin at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Richard Eident officiating. Burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made in Amanda’s honor to the Coles County Animal Shelter, reflecting her love for animals and her giving spirit.
Friends and family are invited to share memories, stories, and condolences on the Schilling Funeral Home website and Facebook page, celebrating a remarkable woman whose legacy of love and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
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