Karen Moody, 80, of Altona, died at 3:40 p.m. Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in the Emergency Department at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.
Karen was born January 18, 1939 in Avon, the daughter of Verner Vincent and Pauline Jane (Yocum) Rylander. Karen married Ronald Duane Moody on April 13, 1958 in Altona. He survives. Karen is also survived by two sons, David (Conny) Moody of Springfield and Mike (Lisa) Moody of Galesburg, one daughter, Laurie (Ray) Sykes of Galesburg; one brother, John Rylander of Sterling; and four grandchildren, Alexander and Arianne Moody, Drake and Logan Sykes. Along with her parents, Karen was preceded in death by one brother, Chuck Rylander and one sister, Lillian Voss.
Karen grew up in Oneida, graduated from the ROVA School District and later worked as a teacher’s aide at Altona Grade School for 28 years, retiring in 2002. Karen played the accordion in high school and won the state championship. Karen was a lifetime and active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altona. She sang in the church choir for many years. Karen was an avid baseball fan, especially the St. Louis Cardinals. She enjoyed playing cards and was an intense pitch player. Karen enjoyed mowing her yard on her riding lawn mower, tending to her flowers, and watching birds.
Karen and Ron were longtime members of Little John Conservation Club. Karen also was a top-notch baker, maker of heavenly pies and Christmas goodies. She entered many of her pies in the Knox County Fair. She also was the ultimate lawn jarts player, loved garage sales, and a good bargain! Karen fiercely loved her family. She loved getting together with them as much as possible, as well as attending all her grandchildren’s sporting and school events and celebrating their accomplishments.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 18, 2019 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Monday, August 19, 2019 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altona. Pastor Tim Anderson will officiate. Memorials may be directed to the church or ROWVA Public School Foundation. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
