Misty Ann (Chaney) Painter, Beloved Teacher and Mother, Passes Away After Courageous Battle with Cancer in Riverton, IL
Misty Ann (Chaney) Painter, a cherished educator and loving mother, passed away on December 1, 2025, after a brave and prolonged fight with bile duct cancer. She was surrounded by family and friends at the time of her passing, with her favorite movie, Top Gun, playing in the background.
Born on January 16, 1975, in Bitburg AFB, West Germany, Misty grew up in Watertown, NY, and El Paso, TX. She graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1993 and went on to earn a degree in elementary education from Eureka College in 1997. Misty dedicated her life to teaching, having worked at several schools across the country, including Trimble Local Schools and Riverton Elementary, where she spent the last years of her career as an instructional coach.
Misty's courage extended beyond the classroom. Over the years, she faced personal health challenges, including a shattered ankle, multiple miscarriages, and gall bladder surgery. But it was her diagnosis of bile duct cancer in 2022 that proved to be her most difficult challenge, one she faced with grace and determination.
Her family, including her husband, David Byron Painter, and their daughter, Kristen, as well as numerous friends, will remember Misty for her positive attitude and unwavering strength, especially in her final days. The family has expressed gratitude for the support they have received from the Riverton School District and the Springfield Clinic Cancer Center during Misty’s illness.
A celebration of Misty’s life will be held at Riverton Elementary School on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Springfield Clinic Cancer Center.
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