Willene Coon, 83, of Galesburg, died at 4 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Seminary Manor.
She was born February 1, 1942, in Hoxie, Arkansas, the daughter of Leonard D. and Nevada E. (Davis) Beary. She married Arthur N. Coon on May 19, 1965, in Knoxville. He preceded her in death on May 23, 2001.
She is survived by her daughter, Illene (Donnie Scott) Schneider of Galesburg; three grandsons, Nathan Coon, Brandon McLaren, and Cody McLaren; two great grandchildren, James Coon and Mercedes McLaren; brothers, Leonard E. Beary of East Galesburg, James Beary of Galesburg, and Richard (Penny) Beary of Appleton; and sisters, Rosetta (Kenny) Howerter and Leona (Dyson) Shannon, both of East Galesburg; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Melody Renee Coon in 1975; and her parents.
Willene worked in housekeeping at Knox College. She enjoyed working word search puzzles, flowers, and fishing with a cane pole. While Arthur was still living, she enjoyed attending square dances when his band was playing.
Visitation will be noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services of Galesburg. Graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Knoxville Cemetery. Pastor Jordan Knight will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
