Denise McBride

Denise S. McBride, 62, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on December 15, 2023. Denise was born in Rockford on August 12, 1961, to Donald and Judy Gilbaugh. She attended Harlem High School, graduating in 1979. In 1989, she married the love of her life, Bill McBride, and had two children, Sarah and Kate McBride. Denise stayed in the Rockford area, working at Rockford Memorial for over 25 years, and retiring from Swedish American.

Denise was a woman of many loves and interests. She enjoyed gardening, camping, biking, and most importantly spending time with her family that she loved dearly. She and Bill enjoyed time being outdoors and fishing, especially in La Crosse, WI. She also enjoyed yearly summer family vacations on the lake in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She loved socializing whenever she got the chance, especially when it came to concerts or festivals. She loved her classic rock music, and loved dancing to it even more.

She is survived by her daughters, Sarah McBride and Kate McBride; mother, Judy Gilbaugh; brother, Dan Gilbaugh; many cousins, in-laws, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill McBride; father, Donald Gilbaugh.

A memorial gathering for Denise will be held Thursday, December 21, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, Illinois 61115. A celebration of life will be announced in the coming weeks for early 2024. If you would like to be notified of this announcement, please sign up for updates below using the "Get Updates" tool.