Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory

03/04/2026

Nancy C. Jacobson

Nancy Jacobson passed away peacefully at home on February 8, 2026, surrounded by family. She is survived in death by her daughter Tina (Nate) Hutchings, grandchildren Mike Jacobson, Nathan (Michelle) Hollan, Alex Bouchez, Willow, Elias, and Rylan Hutchings, and 2 great grandchildren. Surviving siblings are Betty (Larry) Clayes, and Bill Perry. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents William and Virginia Perry, siblings Jeanie Grabbe, Georgia Grabbe, Norma Hoover, and Edward Perry, her son Ronnie Jacobson, and her husband Gary Jacobson.

Nancy was a fun, witty and sassy lady, often having a joke, silly remark, and a smile for family and friends. Nancy never knew a stranger and could make a friend anywhere she went. During her time on hospice her caregivers would ask how she was doing and her common response was “still kickin.” Nancy loved to dance and spend time with family and friends during her younger years. As time passed she traded her dancing shoes for lunches, playing cards and birthday parties. She enjoyed trips to Branson, Las Vegas, and various casinos and shows. Nancy had the opportunity to see Frank Sinatra, and her favorite artist Neil Diamond in concert.

Nancy had various jobs over the years including Admiral, Protexal, The Register Mail, and Miracle Ear. She loved to make crafts and sold her famous hanger Christmas Trees at Scenic Drive. She also loved to coupon.

Cremation services will be Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, with 10:00 am visitation and 11:00 am service. A luncheon will follow at the Thomas Legacy Center. We encourage people to write or tell a fun story they remember from Nancy’s life. Offerings can be made to the family through Watson Thomas Funeral Home. Online expressions may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Nancy C. Jacobson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/04/2026

Sheris A. Wells

Sheris Arlene Wells, 89, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at her daughter’s home, Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.

Sheris was born January 1, 1937 in Galesburg, the daughter of Chester and Juanita Irene (Gilson) Jacobs. Sheris was united in marriage to Eugene Lowell Wells on April 9, 1955 in Galesburg. Gene preceded Sheris in death on January 15, 2014. Left to cherish Sheris’ memory are her five children, daughters, Tina Ennis and Robin Larner both of Galesburg, Patricia (Rob) Allen of Springfield, Illinois; sons, David (Christine) Wells and William (Crystal) Wells both of Galesburg; fifteen grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and several great great grandchildren. Sheris is also survived by three sisters, Sandy Hight of Boca Raton, Florida, Barb (Gale) Akers of Prairie City, Illinois, and Dianna (Mike) Wessels of Galesburg. Along with her parents and husband, Sheris was reunited in heaven with her stillborn child.

Sheris worked as a nurses aide in numerous health care facilities in the Galesburg area for many years. Sheris was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed going to games at Wrigley Field whenever possible. She loved camping, creating unique crafts, animals, country music, and listening to Elvis. Sheris liked attending the Old Threshers Reunion in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa with her family. Most of all, Sheris loved her family deeply and loved to spend as much time with them as possible.

Visitation will be 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, with funeral services following at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Sheris A. Wells's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/03/2026

James W. Rice

James William Rice, 84, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home, Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 11:20 a.m.

Jim or Jimmy as he was fondly known, was born January 1, 1942 in Dallas, Texas, the son of W.C. and Dorothy Louise (Holt) Rice.

Jim married Darlene Griffith on November 16, 1979 in North Glenn, Colorado. Darlene survives as do his five children, Laura Rice of Bonham, Texas, Thomas (Karri) Yeater of Milan, Illinois, Diana Rice and Lisa Ellis both of Biggsville, Illinois, and Clifford (Kerry) Rice of Little Elm, Texas. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren; and nineteen great grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, his uncle “Snooks’” and a grandson, Christopher “Chuck” Yeater.

Jim worked as an over the road trucker spending most of his years working as a team driver with his wife Darlene, driving for Munson Trucking and spent his last many years working for Martin Transport, retiring on June 16, 2012. Jim and Darlene together accumulated almost 6 million miles. Jim worked his entire life, over 2.75 million miles without a single infraction or accident. A quiet man, Jim enjoyed bowling, playing cards or any game, and being with his family.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life visitation will be Monday, March 9, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. No funeral service is planned. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View James W. Rice's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/03/2026

Marilyn N. Tunzi

Marilyn Nanette (Hogan) Tunzi, age 92, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026.

Born with a creative spirit and a boundless curiosity, Marilyn carried artistry into every chapter of her life. After graduating from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she began her creative career in the 1950's as an Interior Designer with Marshall Field and Company, bringing beauty, imagination, and thoughtful design to every space she touched. She was one of two women in her office in a male-dominated industry—steadfast, trailblazing, and instrumental in expanding opportunities for women who came after her.

In later years, Marilyn expanded her artistic path, earning a degree in music from Western Illinois University. She went on to share her love of music by teaching piano out of her home, touching the lives of countless students with patience, joy, and gentle encouragement.

Marilyn’s creativity knew no limits. She found great passion in quilting, piecing together vibrant works of art that reflected her warmth and meticulous eye. When she wasn’t quilting or teaching piano, she could be found outside—hands in the earth—crafting magic in her beloved flower gardens. Her backyard was a living testament to her imagination, care, and love of beauty.

Marilyn was married to Joseph P. Tunzi for 37 years, and together they raised three children: Scott (Gina), Todd (Deceased), and Ginger (David Brockelmeyer) with two grandchildren, Joseph and Natalina. She cherished her family, friends, and especially animals, always surrounding herself with love and companionship.

Her life was defined by creativity, kindness, curiosity, and the joy she found in simple, beautiful moments.

Marilyn will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A private graveside service will be held, with a Celebration of Life planned for April. Family and friends will be notified once arrangements are finalized. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.

03/02/2026

Sandra K. Evans

Sandra Kay Evans, 85, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at 10:00 p.m. Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg.

Sandy was born March 5, 1940, in Galesburg, the daughter of Robert Clare and Gertrude Lucille (McKee) Marshall. Sandy first married Philip E. Swanson. This marriage blessed Sandy with three children. Sandy later married Gary L. Evans on February 20, 1982 in Galesburg. Gary preceded her in death on September 18, 2016.

Sandy is survived by her children, two sons, Scott (Evelyn) Swanson of Galesburg and Darrin Swanson of Davey, Florida; and one daughter, Kelly Swanson of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Sandy is also survived by one brother, Robert Marshall of Sanibel, Florida; and her dear friend and co-worker of 50 plus years, Mary Kay Wilson of Galesburg. Along with her parents and husband Gary, Sandy was preceded in death by one grandson.

Immediately after finishing high school Sandy started working for the power company. She continued working for Illinois Power her entire career, retiring as a gas and electrical engineer. Sandy was an avid doll collector and enjoyed photography, wildlife, and flowers. A lifelong long animal lover, in her younger years, Sandy enjoyed breeding and raising purebred dogs and having her own fur babies.

Graveside services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg, with Pastor Deb Epley officiating. No visitation is planned. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Western Illinois Animal Rescue (W.I.A.R.). Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Sandra K. Evans's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/02/2026

03/01/2026

Betty Malkov

Betty Brown Malkov, 86, of Rising Sun, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg, Illinois.

Betty was born May 23, 1939, in Pulaski, Virginia, the daughter of Clyde Theodore and Bessie Gaye (Havens) Brown. Betty worked as an accountant at Food Fair, Scharins Constructions, and eventually retired as an accountant specialist for J.P. Morgan Chase.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Margaret Fraizer and Ruth Clutter; and two brothers, Charles Brown and Robert (Bob) Brown. Betty is survived by her four children, Pamela (Ed) Bowen Holsopple of Rising Sun, Maryland, Valerie Bowen Marshall of Rising Sun, Maryland, Eric (Lisa) Bowen of East Moline, Illinois, and Karen (Thomas) Bowen Sparkman of Monmouth, Illinois; five grandchildren, Brandi Bowen, Ocie Bowen, Nathan Sparkman, Brook Lannen, and Natalie Bowen. Betty has several great grandchildren including, Luke, Baylee, Brooklyn, Kalli, and Christopher along with other family members to include her two sisters Maxine Stewart and Barbara Sue (Rodger Holmes) Ray of Rising Sun, Maryland.

Betty enjoyed crafts, especially wreath making and playing cards. She also loved family gatherings and dinners. She found great solace spending time at the beach and her beach house. Most of all, Betty was proud of her family and loved to be with them as much as possible.

At the request of the family services will be held privately. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Betty Malkov's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/27/2026

Grief support groups bring so much hope and healing to countless people, but how do you know which one to choose? As you consider your options, keep these 9 qualities of a good grief support group in mind!

Would you like to try a grief support group, but you're not sure what to look for? Read more to learn 9 qualities every group should have.

02/24/2026

Charles N. Smith

Charles Nathan Smith, 77, of Gilson, Illinois, died in the emergency room at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, Illinois on February 21, 2026 at 7:08 p.m.

Charles was born May 9,1948, in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of Loren William and Jean Lucille (Slagel) Smith. Charles graduated from Knoxville High School. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War and married Jennifer Jean Jefferson on July 2, 1971 in Knoxville. Jennifer preceded him in death on October 30, 2022.

Charles is survived by two sons, Troy (Emily) Smith of Monmouth, Illinois and Steeven (Tina) Smith of Galesburg; nine grandchildren, Bradley Smith, Brandon (Carly) Wade, Spencer Smith, Lindsey (Bryce) Eitenmiller, Zach Hewins, Bailey Smith, Ricky Cantu, Logan Wade, and Easton Brunswig; and his beloved three great grandchildren, Harrison, Casey, and Aiden. Charles is also survived by two brothers, John (Karen) Smith of Maquon, Illinois and Tony Smith of Knoxville; and one sister, Kim Hennenfent of Wataga, Illinois. Along with his parents and wife, Charles was preceded in death by one brother, Steeven Smith.

Charles was never afraid of hard work, working many different jobs throughout the years, most notably as an over-the-road truck driver and a farm hand. He loved to spend time mowing his yard, baking for his family, watching television, and sitting on his front porch. Charles also enjoyed traveling, taking numerous trips with his sons. Most of all, Charles was proud of his family and loved to be with them as much as possible.

Cremation will be accorded. No services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Charles N. Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Wanda M. Nordeen

Wanda May Nordeen, 81, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 12:15 p.m.

Wanda was born October 24, 1944 in Canton, Illinois, the daughter of Forrest Preston and Zona Marie (Irwin) Wallace.

Wanda is survived by two sons, Danieal (Tammy) Nordeen of Galva, Illinois and Terry Nordeen of Galesburg; one daughter, Kim Nordeen of Tiskilwa, Illinois; one stepson, Lester Nordeen of Kewanee, Illinois; eight grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, George Wallace.

Wanda worked for over 20 years as the head cook at Knox County Nursing Home. She enjoyed the simple things in life as well as reading, giraffes, spending time with family and friends. She also cherished her many lunches she had with her friends.

Cremation will be accorded. No services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

View Wanda M. Nordeen's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/21/2026

Mary Ann Maxey

Mary Ann Quigley Maxey, 91, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Courtyard Estates in Knoxville, Illinois.

She was born November 5, 1934, in Galesburg, the daughter of J. Philip Quigley and Mary Catherine (O’Connor) Quigley.

Mary Ann graduated from Corpus Christi High School and attended Clarke College in Dubuque, Iowa. She later earned her degree in Elementary Education from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Terre Haute, Indiana, and her lifelong love of music later led her to pursue graduate studies in the field.

On October 27, 1956, she married George Robert Maxey at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Galesburg. Together they raised their three children—George Philip, Jane, and Ann—while living in Monmouth and Peoria, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Rochester, Minnesota; and Galesburg, Illinois.

Mary Ann devoted many years to teaching at Costa Catholic School. She was a faithful and active member of Immaculate Heart of Mary and Corpus Christi Catholic Churches in Galesburg. An accomplished pianist, she especially loved playing for her family. Mary Ann and George also raised AKC Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers for more than 30 years, a shared passion that brought them great joy. Together, they also raised Standardbred racehorses.

Mary Ann will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and neighbor. She was deeply proud of her family and lived her life guided by strong faith, firm values, and a tireless work ethic. Her love, quiet strength, and steadfast presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, George Philip (Virginia “Ginger” Anne) Maxey of Waterloo, Illinois; Jane (Peter) Officer of Hanover, New Hampshire; and Ann Gallagher (Bradley) Hix of Galesburg, Illinois; and by her sister, Jane Quigley Hense of Peoria, Illinois. She is also survived by her seven beloved grandchildren, Phillip (Abby) Officer, Daniel (Lindsey) Officer, John (Laura) Officer, Peter (Krista) Officer, Emily (Tyler) Murphy, Claire (Colin) Root, and Tiffany Maxey; and ten great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Robert Maxey; her parents; her sister, Virginia Noonan; and one grandson, Matthew Maxey.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg, with the rosary prayed immediately following the visitation. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, with Fr. Jeffrey Stirniman as celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Birthright International or the Alzheimer’s Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

May perpetual light shine upon her.

View Mary Ann Maxey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.