Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory

04/16/2026

Ronald L. Wells

Ronald Lee Wells, aka “Smiley,” 79, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 in the emergency room at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.

Ron was born May 25, 1946 in Galesburg, the son of Delbert Wayne and Dorothy Irene (Folkland) Wells. Ron graduated from Galesburg High School. He went on to work at different places in the Galesburg area, most notably spending 19 ½ years at OMC Gale Products and 14 ½ years at OSF St. Mary Medical Center.

Ron married Loretta Ann Lynch on February 11, 1978 in Maquon, Illinois. Loretta survives of Galesburg as do two daughters, Lisa (Tim) Sandrock of Rio, Illinois and Christine (Mike Schisler) Wells-Steele of Abingdon, Illinois; two sons, Stephen (Rhonda) Webb of Atlanta, Georgia and Jason (Kristy) Wells of Chandler, Arizona; one sister, Carol Wensel of Galesburg; and one brother, Tom Humphrey of Galesburg. Ron is also survived by his beloved eleven grandchildren; and ten great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his two cats, Mimi and Tutu. Along with his parents, Ron was preceded in death by a son, Todd Wells on January 21, 1969 ; and his four adored cats, Amos, Cheeko, Amigo, and Skipper.

Ron enjoyed spending time outdoors from fishing to tending to his gardens and feeding the birds (especially sparrows) and squirrels. He could often be found going to yard sales with Loretta or in his workshop making trinkets for his family. Most of all, Ron cherished his time spent with his family.

Cremation will be accorded. Graveside services will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Knox County Humane Society. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/15/2026

Terry R. Boone

Terry Ray Boone, 74, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 5:16 a.m. Sunday, April 12, 2026 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois.

Terry was born February 15, 1951 in LaHarpe, Illinois, the son of Virgil Horace and Ethel Caroline (Buhl) Boone.

Terry married the love of his life, LeAnn Renee Stout on May 25, 1991 in Galesburg, Illinois. They enjoyed almost 34 years of marriage until her passing on February 18, 2025.

Terry is survived by three daughters, Krystal (John) Bellamy of Round Rock, Texas, Cecilia Stout of Galesburg, and Jessica Benson of Ankeny, Iowa; one son, Michael Stout of Bettendorf, Iowa; eleven grandchildren; and two great grandsons. Terry is also survived by one brother, Jerry (Jenny) Boone Richmond, Virginia and his beloved dog, Emma, who gave him immense joy this past year. Along with his parents and wife, Terry was preceded in death by two brothers, Ed and Richard; and a grandson, Johnathan Herr.

Terry worked at Butler Mfg. in Galesburg for 29 years. He then went on to work as a conductor for BNSF for 10 years, retiring in 2017. Terry loved to spend time outdoors, whether it be camping or tending to his well-manicured lawn. In his younger years he enjoyed racing cars at different speedways in the area. A selfless man, Terry could always be counted on to lend a helping hand when asked. Family was of utmost importance to Terry; he relished being a dad and grandpa and always enjoyed getting extended family together for Sunday breakfasts.

Cremation will be accorded and private family services will be held. A celebration of life will be 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday May 2, 2026 at the fire station in Wataga, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/14/2026

Why is having a service so important?

A service gives everyone a time to come together and honor a person’s life by remembering good times, receiving support from loving people, and grieving together. With a personalized and meaningful funeral service, you and your family can take the first step toward healing by creating special moments so that saying goodbye is possible.

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04/13/2026

04/10/2026

Jacquelyn J. Jacob

Jacquelyn Jo Jacob, 73, of Henderson, Illinois, died at 12:36 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, Illinois.

Jacque was born July 6, 1952 in Galesburg, the daughter of Kent Elmo “Jake” and Estellina Roberta (Laird) Jacob. Jackie is survived by her significant other of 35+ years, Scott Michael Holden of Henderson; one son, Zac (Sarah) Jacob of Berwick, Illinois; one daughter, Cassandra (Matt Gavin) Jacob of Macomb, Illinois; and one brother, Ken Jacob of Florida. Jacque is also survived by five grandchildren, Braydon (Kayleen Jern) Jones, Lainey Gavin, Hadley Gavin, Mazi Jacob, and Whitley Jacob; two great grandchildren, Oakley and Lyrik; along with several cousins and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother Larry Jacob.

Jacque worked as an insurance agent for Combined Insurance before later serving as both a manager and ticket agent at the Burlington Trailways Bus Station in Galesburg. She had a passion for crafting, creating a wide variety of handmade items that she sold at local flea markets, where she often also took on a management role. Above all, Jacque cherished time with her family, frequently expressing her love by cooking meals for them. Jacque would often invite anyone she knew who might be alone on a holiday to her house for a lovely meal. Jacque also relished her monthly lunch’s with many of her high school classmates.

Per her wishes, Jacque has chosen to donate her body to science. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Knoxville American Legion, Knoxville, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to WIAR (Western Illinois Animal Rescue). Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, Illinois. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/10/2026

Grief can sometimes feel disjointed - a cry here, a burst of anger there; a deep sadness today, a crush of guilt tomorrow. In this article, Dr. Alan Wolfelt, renowned author and grief counselor, urges us to trust the process of grief. As you surrender to the mystery, your experience of love and grief will create a changed you. A you who has not only survived but who has learned to thrive again in a new form and in a new way. Click the link to learn more!

In our lives, we all participate in rituals. To learn more about the healing aspects of rituals, take a few moments to read this article.

04/09/2026

Sharon K. Day

Sharon Kay Day, 75, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 1:09 p.m. Monday, April 6, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones at Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville, Illinois.

Sharon was born September 25, 1950 in Galesburg, the daughter of Richard Lawrence of Ruth Adaline (Tracy) Wells.

Sharon is survived by one daughter, Kathy (Mike) Doney of Galesburg; one sister, Kathy Atwater of Galesburg; two nephews, Richard “Bub” Atwater and Randy Atwater, Jr; and three great nephews, C-Jay Atwater, Kyle Atwater, and William Smith. Along with her parents, Sharon was preceded in death by one sister, Anna Stone.

Sharon was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church, Galesburg. She loved to play bingo and enjoyed spending as much time with her family as she could.

Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Bethel Baptist Church, Galesburg. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home. Online expressions may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/08/2026

Carol Ann St. Amant

Carol Ann St. Amant of Galesburg, Illinois, died on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, at Seminary Manor of Galesburg, Illinois after a long illness.

Carol was born on December 29, 1944, to Eldridge and Ernestine St. Amant in Chicago, Illinois and spent her formative years on the southside of the city she loved. Carol attended Englewood High School where she was a trumpet player in the marching band and a member of the National Honor Society. In June 1962, Carol graduated as the class valedictorian. Carol earned both Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees from Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL., and a Master of Arts from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago.

Carol was a person of deep faith and lived a life reflective of her Christian values. Carol was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Galesburg, IL where she sang in the choir prior to her illness.

Carol dedicated her life to helping others in a variety of professional roles, including serving for many years as a senior administrator for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Carol also enjoyed mentoring those with an interest in Social Services, including supporting young social workers and many aspiring Knox College students.

Carol was a long-time member of Altrusa International, and the Galesburg Community Chorus (including serving as a past president). Carol was also a member of the Quad Cities (IL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated. Carol led a life of generosity and service, and inspired others as well.

Carol was a lifelong Chicago White Sox fan who enjoyed her weekend season tickets for many years and later cheered on her favorite team from her “front-row seat” in Galesburg. Carol was a lover of dogs, especially her beloved Bebe and Finn. In her free time, Carol enjoyed singing, running, playing softball, dining out, watching sports, traveling, following current events, and spending cherished time with family and friends.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Delores Roseborough; niece Karen Schaffer; and her pets Bebe and Finn. Carol is survived by her great nephew Chevas Schaffer (Wanda); great, great nephew Joshua Schaffer; and great, great, great nephew Marcus Pollard; all of Chicago. Carol also leaves to cherish her memory, many beloved friends and extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00am at First Presbyterian Church, 101 N. Prairie Street, Galesburg, Illinois, followed by a luncheon at the church. Carol has selflessly chosen to donate her body to assist in research that may lead to the cure and treatment of dementia and other conditions. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Roosevelt University, Chicago; United Negro College Fund, Fairfax Virginia; and/ or Knox College to assist students in need. Arrangements entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, Illinois. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/07/2026

John L. Stegall

John Lee Stegall, 57, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home, Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 4:54 a.m.

John was born May 17, 1968, in Galesburg, the son of Charlie and Jeanne Stegall. Following high school, John joined the US Army, a career spanning 24 years, retiring as a CW-4 in 2009. John received numerous decorations, medals, and citations along with many deployments.

John is survived by one sister, Dawn (Keith) Clague of Galesburg; an Aunt Sandra Gillenwater of Galesburg; a close friend and companion, Kathe Patch; and his wife, Deanna (McIntosh) Stegall. John was preceded in death by his parents.

In his free time, John enjoyed listening to music, especially vinyl records, cooking, spending time with his friends, and travelling on his Harley Davidson.

Cremation will be accorded. No services are planned per John’s wishes. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.wathomas.com.

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04/07/2026

June R. Verheyen

June Rose Verheyen, 97, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 8:10 a.m. Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg, Illinois.

June was born November 19, 1928 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Thomas Elmer and Nancy A. Cummins. She married James N. Verheyen, Sr. on April 8, 1947 at St. Lawrence O’Toole Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

June is survived by her children, Julie (Dennis) Peterson of Knoxville, Illinois, Jim (Melanie) Verheyen, Jr. of Galesburg, and Julie (Kraig) McCluskie of Butler, Missouri. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren, Larry (Amber) Morrison, Christopher Peterson, Gerry (Randy) Tinkham, Jim (Kelly) Verheyen Currie III, Ryan (Kaitlyn) Schulz, Hannah (Nathaniel) Marshall, Alex McCluskie, and Tommy (Lacey) McCluskie; nine great grandchildren; and eleven great great grandchildren; and her beloved dog, Boo.

Along with her parents, June was preceded in death by her husband, Jim on April 3, 2021; a daughter, Janet Adams; three brothers; and four sisters.

The family moved to Galesburg in the early 1960’s and soon after, June began working at Admiral. She worked there until its closure. She then worked for a time as a school crossing guard. June was an accomplished woodworker, having a full woodworking shop in her basement. She enjoyed tending to her yard and was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.

Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with funeral services following at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choosing. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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04/07/2026

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04/07/2026

Margaret "Muffy" Gustafson

Margaret Mary “Muffy” Gustafson, 77, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at Saturday, April 4, 2026 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington, Illinois.

Muffy was born November 18, 1948 in Galesburg, the daughter of George Dale and Betty Lou (Dillon) Spilman.

Muffy graduated from Knoxville High School in 1967 and shortly after, married William Daniel Gustafson on July 9, 1967 in Monmouth, Illinois. Muffy later earned her AAS in X-Ray Technology from Carl Sandburg College.

Muffy worked for many years as an X-Ray Tech at Mercer County Hospital, later at Galesburg Cottage Hospital, and OSF St. Mary Medical Center. Muffy and Bill owned and operated M&E Tag Sales in Galesburg for several years.

Muffy is survived by her husband of 58 years, Bill of Galesburg; three daughters, Zenna (Joe) Steiger of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, Mariah (Chris) Pauwels of Moline, Illinois, and Martha (Ben) Holt of Galesburg; and one sister, Ann Whitworth of Dunlap, Illinois. Muffy is also survived by her beloved six grandchildren, Logan Wise, Geneva Steiger, Dillon Pauwels, Anna Pauwels, Axel Holt, and Beatrice Holt. Muffy was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Father Robert Spilman.

She was strong-willed and never shy about being in charge—something her children and husband knew firsthand. Her laugh filled a room, and she never met a stranger she didn’t immediately welcome in (and likely feed). The kitchen was her happy place, and no one ever left hungry, whether they planned to or not. She kept life lively, kept everyone moving, and if sainthood were handed out for patience, Bill would be at the front of the line.

Muffy was a longtime member and president of the Galesburg Women’s Club. She was a faithful member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church, where she belonged to the Altar and Rosary Society and volunteered with the St. Vincent DePaul Society. She was fierce Bridge player and taught home economics at Costa Catholic School for a few years.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, with the rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. Funeral mass will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, with Father Jeffrey Stirniman officiating. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the Galesburg High School Band Boosters or American Heart Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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