Carol L. Hanson, 99, of Monmouth, IL, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, IL, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on December 5, 1926 in Clinton, IA, the daughter of Leland and Ethel (Rogers) Still. Carol was raised and educated in Galesburg and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1944.
Carol married Robert E. “Gene” Hanson on March 24, 1946, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Galesburg, Illinois. They shared more than six decades of marriage until Gene preceded her in death on January 16, 2009.
She began her working life as a secretary at Churchill Junior High School in Galesburg. After marrying Gene, Carol devoted herself to their life together on the farm, working alongside him every day. Their partnership was not only a marriage but a true team effort, built on shared purpose, hard work, and mutual support.
Carol was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Galesburg and later First Lutheran Church in Monmouth, where she remained actively involved for many years, including serving on the church council. Her commitment to her community was equally strong. She contributed her time and leadership to numerous organizations, including the Warren County Farm Bureau Board, the Warren County Extension Council, and the Cameron Unit of Home Extension, where she also served as a former County Chairman. In addition, she made a lasting impact as a dedicated 4-H leader.
Carol found great joy in simple, meaningful pursuits. She loved gardening and took pride in her handwork, especially quilting. She and Gene also enjoyed participating in several card clubs, cherishing the friendships they built through those gatherings. Above all, Carol treasured time spent with her family, holding a special place in her heart for her grandchildren.
Surviving Carol are her children, David (Cindy) Hanson of Wheeling, IL, Ted (Sue) Hanson of Monmouth, IL, Debbie (Bob) Hall of East Moline, IL, and Janet (Dave) Carlson of Rochester, MN. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Gene Hanson, and her siblings, Roger Still, Lauren Still, Joan Markham, and Mary Anderson,
Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the First Lutheran Church in Monmouth, IL. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL. Interment will be in Monmouth Cemetery, Monmouth, IL. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the First Lutheran Church of Monmouth or the Galesburg Rescue Mission and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
