Rosemary Smolek

Rosemary Smolek, age 98, of Chillicothe, passed away on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Rosemary was born on August 9, 1923 in North Judson, Indiana to Andrea and Maria (Carlucci) Pepe.  She married George James Smolek on December 18, 1953 in Indiana and he preceded her in death on December 15, 1967.  Also preceding her in death are her parents, four brothers and two sisters.

Surviving are her daughter, Linda Smolek-Abel; her grandson, George (Rebekah Conley) Abel; and her great-grandson, Kristopher George Abel, all of Chillicothe.  Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

During World War II, Rosemary supported the war efforts by working in an ammunition depot near Rockford.

Rosemary was an Avon Representative for 51 years, retiring in 2015.  While selling Avon she had her fifteen minutes of fame by having an article written about her in Success Magazine. Rosemary saw many generations of customers and friends during her time with Avon and they became like family to her.  She was a member of the Chillicothe Methodist Church and the Martha Washington Lodge #178 Order of the Eastern Star.  As with true Italian culture, Rosemary was the Matriarch, family was extremely important to her and she was there to support her family no matter what.

Cremation rites will be accorded and a graveside service will be held at a later date at Chillicothe City Cemetery.  Memorials in Rosemary’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  Online condolences may be made through www.weberhurdfuneralhome.com

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