Shirley J. Rowell

She was born April 24, 1936 in Green Valley, Illinois to Carl and Katie (Ruth) Weir. She married Sam Jones on August 10, 1958. She later married Robert “Bob” Rowell on April 14, 1990.

Surviving are her three children, Laura of Houston, TX, Curtis (Kate Hintz) Jones of North Salem, NY and Craig (Molly) Jones of Katy, TX and three step-children, Linda (Cliff) Elliott of Pekin, Robert Lee (Lucy) Rowell of Mundelein, IL and James S. (Deanna) Rowell of Pekin. Also surviving are 13 grandchildren; Katie (Emma Roddy) Jones, Olivia Jones, Morgan Jones, Valerie Reed, David (Stephanie) Rowell, Mark Rowell, Sheri (Phil) Kunz, Jeremy (Ashley) Elliott, Josh (Emily) Elliott, Michelle (Ryan) Block, Lee (Lily) Rowell, Trisha (Ryan) Plunkett, and Emily (Paul) Schwarz and 23 great grandchildren.

Shirley was a lifelong educator, working for decades in the Dunlap School District. She was an active member of Homemakers Extension and attended Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria and Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap. Shirley loved traveling extensively, sewing, gardening, music and spending time with family.

She will be remembered as an active member of the community, always willing to serve others and maintaining friendships for decades. She will be remembered for her quick wit, her feisty spirit and dedication to her faith.

Services will be held at 1:30 PM Saturday, November 2, 2024 at Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap with visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Linda Vonck will officiate. Burial will follow at Green Valley Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Boys Town.

Condolences and memories may be shared at Woolsey-Wilton.com