Eleanor (Ellie) Gaile Gillette, 91, of Galesburg, died peacefully 2 p.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Promedica Skilled Nursing, Galesburg.
Ellie was born September 9, 1930 in Galesburg, the daughter of Glenn Ray and Cecile Elizabeth (Mahon) Hawkins.
While out roller skating one night, Ellie met Max Gillette. They were married on August 23, 1958 at Faith United Methodist Church in Galesburg. Max survives of Galesburg as do two sons, Rick (Rosie) Snell of Springfield, Illinois and Dennis (Kim) Gillette of Galesburg; one daughter, Tina (Tim) Guardalabene of Galesburg; eight grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren, 3 great- great- grandchildren; and a son-in-law, Mark Clyatt of Florida. Ellie was preceded in death by one daughter, Dorothy Snell; and one brother, Gene.
Max & Ellie spent many memorable times with family and friends roller skating. Ellie liked horses and has numerous figurines. She enjoyed bike riding even in her later years. Ellie was a people person. She volunteered at several different thrift stores in Galesburg. She enjoyed attending Faith United Methodist Church and Four Square Gospel Church, both in Galesburg.
Ellie’s wishes were to have her body donated to science. A celebration of her life will be held on September 10, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, 876 E. Knox St, with a luncheon to follow. Pastor Tim Bledsoe will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made in Ellie’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, Faith United Methodist Church, or to Four-Square Gospel Church. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
