Joyce Mowbray

Joyce Elaine (Ropp) Mowbray, 81, of Chillicothe, Illinois passed away at Methodist Hospital Tuesday, January 4, 2022.

Joyce was born on October 5, 1940 in Putnam, Illinois, daughter of Walter and Mable (Dorff) Ropp.

Surviving are her two daughters, Vickie Tagatz of West Bend, Wisconsin and Sue Mowbray of Chillicothe, Illinois; one son, Gary (Susan) Mowbray of Peru, Illinois. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Heather, Heidi, Kevin, Colleen, Michelle and Emily; two great-grandchildren, Addie, Ellie and one on the way; a sister, Betty Frazier of Princeton, Illinois and a brother, Dale (Sally) Ropp of Buda, Illinois.

Joyce was proceeded in death by her husband Mike Mowbray.  Joyce and Mike were married on January 2, 1960 in Peoria, Illinois. They were married for 58 years when Mike passed.

Joyce was born and raised in Bradford, Illinois where she graduated from Bradford High School. After graduation she attended Browns Business College in Peoria where she got her associate degree in business. Joyce was also a certified nurse’s aide and held that job for many years, working at the Kewanee Hospital. She was the secretary to the superintendent and the board of Neponset Grade School and High School for over 20 years before her retirement. Joyce was also the 4-H leader in Neponset for many years.  Joyce enjoyed working with all the children and getting to know them and their families.  She was a wonderful leader who dedicated her time as a 4-H leader to help children learn to cook, craft and all the activities offered through 4-H.

Joyce and Mike lived in Neponset, Illinois for over 50 years before retiring to Chillicothe to be closer to family.  Joyce was a member of the Chillicothe Circle of Service, Pearce Community Center and St. Edward Catholic Church in Chillicothe, Illinois. Through these groups, Joyce made many friends and enjoyed making a new home in Chillicothe.  Joyce enjoyed playing bingo in Chillicothe and her favorite day of the week was Friday’s when she got her hair done and then bingo that night.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She will always be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife and mother and the rock of her family.

Private services will be held with a celebration of life planned for June.  Memorials may be made to the Neponset Public Library, or the Chillicothe Circle of Service. Arrangements are under the care of Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe.  Online condolences may be made through www.weberhurdfuneralhome.com

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