Joan M. Murphy

She was born on April 29, 1931 in East Peoria, IL to Henry and Maneva (Crawford) Rebholz. After the death of her father at a young age her Mother married Robert Thielbar.

She married James J. Murphy Sr. on September 18, 1947. He preceded her in death in January of 1982. Also preceding her in death are her parents, step-father and infant sister Margie Rebholz.

Survivors include her children, Pamela (Richard) Anderson of Pekin, James J. (Linda) Murphy Jr. of Spring Bay, P.Michael (J.L. Honey) Murphy of Fort Myers, FL, Jayme (Davis) Murphy-Towler Jr. of Creve Coeur, and Kelly (Kevin) Geiler of Pekin; grandchildren, Todd Anderson, Corie (Jesse) Adami, Jay (Melissa) Murphy, Jessica (Greg) Reilly, Davis Towler III, Myles Towler, Kevin (Brooke) Geiler Jr. and Shallen (Jason) Kelch; 22 great-grandchildren; sisters, Dolores Reatherford, Arlene (Clyde) Petty and Patsy Leiby; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Joan loved to crochet, do crosswords, puzzles, flowers and animals. Most of all, she loved her family and God. She was a strong Christian woman who raised five children. Her family fondly remembers her Friday Clubhouse meetings on her front porch with all of her family. She had a steadfast faith in God and her church, Summit Nazarene. She will be missed by all and her beloved cat, Paisley.

Private Graveside services will be held at Fondulac Twp. Cemetery in East Peoria.

Rev. David L. Coyle will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to TAPS, Alzheimers or Dementia Association or the charity of your choice.

Remmert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.remmertfuneralhome.com