Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory

01/09/2026

The start of another year brings with it a sense of newness and a blank slate of sorts.

You probably have goals for the upcoming year, and hopefully, you are creating a game plan to bring you one step closer every day.

If you have space on your list, might we suggest – funeral preplanning! It’s a simple process that doesn’t take a lot of time and is a great gift for your loved ones.

Best wishes for a great year – may it take you places that bring you joy!

01/08/2026

Martha "Marty" M. Melton

Martha Mary “Marty” Melton, 89, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 2:32 p.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026 at UnityPoint Finley Hospital, Dubuque, Iowa.

Marty was born on a farm near Randall, Minnesota on May 11, 1936 the daughter of Friedrich “Carl” Ludwig and Mary Irene (Housh) Guttman. She attended school in Randall, St. Ansgar, Iowa, and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1954. She married John Louis Melton on July 16, 1978 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He preceded her in death on July 8,2023. Marty worked for many years at Dick Blick, Co in Galesburg before retiring.

Marty is survived by two sons, Anthony (Amanda) Markham of Asbury, Iowa and Kim Melton of Galesburg; two daughters, Tami Melton of Galesburg and Diane Markham of Moline, Illinois; twelve grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and one sister, Karline (Dan) Bendixon of Elgin, Illinois.

Cremation will be accorded. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Private family scattering of cremated remains will be at East Linwood Scattering Gardens. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/07/2026

Phyllis J. Kalin

Long time Galesburg resident, Phyllis Jean Osborn Kalin, 96, passed away unexpectedly at home in the Hitchcock Senior Apartments on January 5, 2026.

Phyllis was born to Ervin C. and Leota Mae Sawyer Osborn on October 3, 1929, in Shenandoah, Ia. The family moved to Bloomington, Ill., where Phyllis received her early education. Later the family moved to a farm near Osgood, Mo. Phyllis graduated from Milan, Mo., High School in 1947, and graduated with a degree in education from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College, now Truman State University, in Kirksville, Mo. She did additional study at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.

Phyllis began her teaching career in rural schools and taught eight years in Sullivan Co., Mo., then moving to Galesburg, Il., where she taught for two years at L.T. Stone school, 14 years at Hitchcock Elementary, 13 years at Lincoln Elementary, and two years in Peoria, Il.

On November 23, 1961, in New York City, Phyllis was united in marriage to William “Bill” Kalin. She was active in the Illinois Retired Teachers Association, Knox County Retired Teachers Association, and Alpha Delta Kappa International Sorority for Women Educators of which she was a member since 1949.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Richard C. Osborn, husband Bill Kalin in 1995; and a stepson, Bill Kalin, Jr. She is survived by one brother Harold L. (Becky) Osborn, daughter-in-law Marjorie (Kalin) McVey (Bill), sister-in-law Karen Osborn, step-daughter Pauline Semich, nine step-grandchildren: Kristine (Matthew) Sprinkle, Bill (Julie) Kalin, Sharon Kalin, Sue Balint, Laurie Easton, Mindy (Paul) Nicholas, Randy (Carol) Larson, Jenna (Tony) Loban, Scott (Kris) Wagher, niece Becky L’Ecuyer, nephews Jim (Kristy) Osborn, Tony (Gina) Osborn, niece Jeanne ( Randy) Youngman, and many great-nieces and nephews.

Phyllis loved traveling, music, spending time with family and friends; she loved people, God, and her country. Phyllis will be greatly missed by all of those she loved.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with funeral services following at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Theresa Wise will officiate. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, make donations to your favorite charity in Phyllis’s honor. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/06/2026

Rebecca A. Bowton

Rebecca Ann Bowton, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully with her family by her side, Friday, January 2, 2026 at Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville, Illinois.

Becky was born June 5, 1949 in Galesburg, the daughter of Carl William and Velma Marie (Delawder) Theobald. She married Kent E. Bowton on July 22, 1967 in Galesburg. Becky is survived by her husband of 58 years, Kent of Galesburg; two sons, Britt Bowton of Galesburg and Eric (Niki) Bowton of Galesburg; one daughter, Cathy Bowton of Galesburg; seven grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. Becky is also survived by one brother, Ronald (Darlys) Theobald of Cameron, Illinois; three nieces; and three nephews. Along with her parents, Becky was preceded in death by one sister, Linda Theobald; and one brother, Frank Theobald.

In her early working years, Becky worked at Arlen’s and W.T. Grant both in Galesburg, before embarking on a 22 year career at Wal-Mart. Becky retired on May 16, 2007. In her free time, Becky enjoyed crafts, shopping throughout the Scenic Drive, and helping others as often as she could. She had a kind, loving, caring, and giving heart. Becky never let her disability define her or slow her down. Most of all, Becky loved spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with the rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 9, 2026 at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/06/2026

Nancy Jo Stone

Nancy Jo (nee McKie) Stone, 75, of Wataga, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Allure of Lake Storey, Galesburg.

She was born December 26, 1950 in Galesburg, to Margaret M. (Shepherd) and C. Eugene McKie. Nancy married Steve L. Stone in July 1969 and they had two children, Kevin (Christy) Stone of Wataga and Kelly (Brent) Hill of Oneida. She then married Rick Hunt in 1983 and later remarried Steve Stone in 1995.

Surviving along with her children are three grandchildren, Kyron (Kaprice Pierson) Stone and Kelsey Hill all of Oneida, and Mason (Sydney Kuberski) Stone of Wataga; seven step grandchildren; and one step great grandson. She is also survived by one sister, Linda (Gary) Giger of Moline, Illinois; a half sister, Donna (Rick) Swigart of Galesburg; a half-brother, Tim L. Berg of Wataga; a stepbrother, Rodger (Gerry) C**n of Galesburg; and several nieces and nephews. Others surviving Nancy are a sister-in-law, Sharon (Bing) Solomon of Minnesota; and brothers in law, Tom Stone and Bill (Lorraine) Stone both of Galesburg. Nancy was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret (Rube) Rushing; her father, Gene (Ina) McKie; grandparents, Joe and Ethel Shepherd and Leslie and Mildred McKie; and her parents-in-law, Jim and Pat Stone.

Nancy lived in Oneida and Wataga where she was a wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed watching her grandchildren in their sporting events and attending their pig shows. She also enjoyed gardening, reading, cooking, and baking. Nancy worked several jobs including Nypro Plastics, Galesburg Clinic, and Hy-Vee all in Galesburg; and County Market in Monmouth.

Cremation has been accorded. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. A celebration of life for Nancy will be Sunday January 11, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Oneida Fire Station, 254 N. Sage St., Oneida, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, American Cancer Society, or Galesburg Rescue Mission. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/05/2026

01/04/2026

Theodore L. Holeman

Theodore “Ted” Leslie Holeman, 80, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at home on December 31, 2025 at 8:50 p.m.

Ted was born May 8, 1945 in Monmouth, Illinois, the son of Donald Max and Georgene Hussele (Means) Holeman. In his early working years, Ted worked for the railroad and went on to work as a self-employed handyman for many years.

Ted is survived by two daughters, Deanna (Bill) Stokes of Galesburg and Karla (Steve) McDonald of Abingdon, Illinois; one brother, Jeff Holeman of Monmouth; six grandchildren; and thirteen great grandchildren. Along with his parents, Ted was preceded in death by one daughter, Leslie Holeman; three brothers, Lee, Donald, and Jan; and one grandson, Jeff Brown.

At heart Ted was a homebody who enjoyed painting and gardening. He also loved to collect various antiques and spend time on the Mississippi River.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/03/2026

Russell W. Parker

Russell “Rusty” aka, “Troll” W. Parker, 72, of Bushnell, Illinois, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family at 7:44 p.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Rusty was born on January 22, 1953, in Savanna, Illinois, the son of Edward Paul and Rose Marie (Grana) Parker. Rusty or Troll as he was known by many, served in the US Army from February 11, 1970, until he was honorably discharged on February 28, 1972, serving a tour in Vietnam. He married Beverly Ann Ashby on August 26, 1984, in Ellisville, Illinois.

Rusty is survived by his wife of 41 years, Bev Bushnell; and their three children, Travis M. (Stephanie) Parker of Galesburg, Sarah B. (Shawn) Harris of Bushnell, and Rustie M. (Derick) Nelson of Springfield, Illinois; six grandchildren, Skyler, Joseph, Khali, Justice, Lylah, and Azriela; and two great grandchildren, Amara and Danny Jo. Rusty is also survived by two brothers, Clay Parker of Sabula, Iowa and Edward Iowa City, Iowa; and five sisters, Ladeen of California, Sandy of Savanna, Bonnie of Savanna, Shiela of Savanna, and Rosina of Savanna. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Steve; two sisters, Tina and Ruthie; and one grandson, Kaynan.

Never afraid of hard work, Rusty owned and operated his own autobody shop for many years while operating Rusty’s Overhead Doors until retiring in 2020. Into retirement, he enjoyed spending as much time as he could in his shop continuing to repair, rebuild, and restore cars and motorcycles. An avid motorcyclist, Rusty spent many years riding his Harley’s all over. An avid outdoorsman, he loved to spend time fishing, shooting guns, and hunting. A lover of music, especially classic rock, could be heard from his workshop. Most of all, family came first for Rusty. He was never afraid to grab Bev’s hand and take her on the dance floor no matter how much it embarrassed his children. He loved nothing more than being able to provide for them and loving on his grandbabies. He had a joyful heart and was as onery as could be and was known as a prankster. Rusty had a strong faith in God, was always surrounded by little ones at their church, Shepherd’s Gate Church, where he and Bev have attended for the past 17 years.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Shepherd’s Gate Church, 318 Robin Road, Macomb, Illinois. 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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01/02/2026

Linda S. Waldorf

Linda Sue Waldorf, 55, of Galesburg, died at 7:48 a.m. Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center.

She was born March 27, 1970 in Streator, Illinois, the daughter of George Lewis and Mary Anne (Stratton) Waldorf, Jr. Over the years, Linda had waitressed at various restaurants and worked at United Facilities for some time.

Left to cherish her memory is her best friend and roommate, Steven Brown of Galesburg; three sons: Darrell Thurman of St. Augustine, Illinois, Ronne Thurman of Galesburg, and Tyrese Waldorf of Texas; two daughters, Mariyssa Waldorf of Belleville, Illinois, and Breanna Hampton of Galesburg; three brothers: Mark Waldorf of Galesburg, Clarence (Gladys George) Lamb, III, and Randy (Heidi Carle) Lamb, both of Kirkwood, Illinois; three sisters: Kathy Utsinger, Terri Barnes, and Lisa (Mike) Miller, all of Galesburg. Linda is also survived by several grandchildren; a close friend, Matt Sullivan of Galesburg; several aunts and uncles; many nieces and nephews; and two great nieces and three great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Donald “Donnie” Waldorf; and four nieces.

Linda was passionate about cooking, often experimenting with new recipes and flavors. Beyond the kitchen, she had an inquisitive nature that led her to try new things. Linda had a soft spot for animals. She enjoyed tinkering with and working on bicycles. Linda also had a special affinity for finding joy in the small things, often seeking out activities that offered free experiences. A happy spirit, Linda's presence was felt wherever she went.

A private family visitation will be held. Cremation will be accorded. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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01/02/2026

Ronda "Lynn" Cozad

Ronda “Lynn” Cozad, 61, of Galesburg, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at home with her family by her side.

She was born September 20, 1964 in Muscatine, Iowa, the daughter of Ronald Ralph and Emma Rose (Setters) Rohr. Lynn was reared and educated in Nichols, Iowa, where she attended West Liberty Schools while growing up. She was a devoted caregiver most of her life, recently working through DORS for almost 20 years. Lynn also worked at various local restaurants over the years. She married James “Jim” A. Cozad, Jr. and together they had four daughters. They later divorced.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters: Tabitha (Joshua) Miller of Galesburg, Windy Cozad of Galesburg, Emma Leigh (William) Phillips of Clarksville, Tennessee, and Samantha Cozad of Rock Island, Illinois; bonus son, Christopher Damitz of Galesburg; her boyfriend of over 20 years, Bjorn “B.J.” Ericson of Galesburg; her mother, Emma Rohr of Mason City, Iowa; three grandchildren: Anthony Rohr, Desmond Rohr, and Alexandria Rohr; two brothers, Danny (Sandra) Rohr of Mason City and Scott (Janelle) Rohr of Muscatine; and four nephews: Zach Rohr, Zeb Rohr, Zeke Rohr, and Dillon Rohr. She was preceded in death by her father and maternal grandma, Mae Dean.

Lynn had a passion for being outdoors, often found tending to her flowers and soaking in the beauty of nature. The Fourth of July held a special place in her heart. She thrived in the company of others, always eager to lend a helping hand. The gatherings at J&R Saloon and Harley's Pub were some of her fondest memories, where laughter and camaraderie characterized her time spent with friends. She also enjoyed her days in pool leagues and listening to music. Most of all, Lynn cherished spending quality time with her loved ones.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held February 5, 2026 from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm at Harley’s Pub in Galesburg. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg.

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01/02/2026

Are you looking to honor a veteran?s military service at their final goodbye? Check out these 20 ideas for how you can personalize a beloved veteran?s funeral to highlight and celebrate their military service in a way that is tailored to their one-of-a-kind story.

There are so many way to go about personalizing a veteran's final tribute. Here are 20 ideas to get you started with your own brainstorm!

01/01/2026

Jessie Perez

Jessie Perez, 92, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.

Jessie was born June 9, 1933 in Galesburg, the daughter of Pedro and Delphina (Galves) Leon. She married Lupe Perez on June 9, 1952 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Galesburg. He preceded her in death on after 61 years of marriage on March 24, 2014.

Jessie is survived by one son, Jack (Cathy Bergmann) Perez of Galesburg; two daughters, Linda Nolta and Teresa (Tom) Mackey both of Galesburg; one brother, Sam Leon of Galesburg; and one sister, Mary Vega of Galesburg. Jessie is also survived by her beloved seven grandchildren, Simeon (Heidi) Nolta, Adrienne Heba, Anthony (Shannon) Nolta, Valerie (Brian) Tucker, Mariah (Keith) Quick, and Brandi (Brandon) Smith; eleven great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; and her dear friend, Vicki McVey. Along with her parents and husband, Jessie was preceded in death by two sisters, Lupita and Julia; one brother, Manuel; two grandsons, Adam Perez and Brent Mackey; and a son-in-law, Greg Nolta.

Jessie and Lupe owned and operated John’s Taco Hideout in Galesburg for 30 years from 1964 until their retirement in 1994. Jessie continued to be a fixture at the Hideout helping her son Jack. She made many lifelong friends from the restaurant. She was a lifelong devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. She loved spending time with her family and going shopping.

Visitation will be 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. The rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m. Funeral Mass for Jessie will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 5, 2026 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Galesburg, Father Jeffrey Stirniman will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or St. Patrick Catholic Church. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com .

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