Antoinette “Toni” Hollowell, 87, of Galesburg, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 5, 2025, one day short of her 88th birthday.
She was born December 6, 1937, in Galesburg, the daughter of William “Bill” and Alma Louise (Johnson) Wilder. She married Charles R. Williams Sr. in 1953, in Galesburg. She later married Larry Hollwell in 1970.
She is survived by her children, Tyrone (Bonnie Allen) Williams I, of East Galesburg, Sheila (Reginald) Williams-Edwards of Dubuque, Iowa, Cary D. Williams of Orlando, Florida, Lisa Williams of Galesburg, and Sydney Williams of Chicago; special bonus children, Chuck (Kim) Adams of Aurora, Chaz (Elizabeth) Williams of Galesburg, Jolean Overton Austin of Davenport, Iowa, and Londa Hollowell of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; 34 grandchildren and a host of great and great-great grandchildren; a brother, Ronald Wilder of Kewanee; special friends, Becky Boyd and Phillip McGruder; and her loves-her dogs, Tuffy and Teddy. Toni and Charles continued to maintain a strong friendship many years after divorcing, speaking daily. She was preceded in death by her parents; children, Charles R. (Sandra Townsend) Williams Jr., Scott Hollowell, and Michelle “Shelley” Williams; and a sister, Ivy Nixon.
In addition to raising her family, Toni worked at Admiral/Maytag for over 42 years, until their closure. She was raised in the Second Baptist Church. Toni was an avid sports fan, being a long-time season ticket holder for the Galesburg Silver Streaks, and a fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, and ceramics. Most of all, Toni enjoyed time spent with her large, extended family.
Visitation will be 12:30 to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services of Galesburg. Funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at the chapel with burial in East Linwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the American Heart Association. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
