Mrs. Carleane Curtis, at the age of 95, went to be with the Lord peacefully at her home in Galesburg, Illinois, on Thursday, May 21, 2026. She lived a life rooted in faith and devoted to Christ.
Carleane was born to Robert Moore and Irene Rankin on May 28, 1930, in Forest, Mississippi. Raised in a home where the Lord was served, family was cherished, and hard work was valued, she graduated from high school in 1947 and received a degree from Jackson State University before beginning a life devoted to caring for others. She later married Arnell Curtis, and together they built a family in Chicago, Illinois, raising their four children: twins, Jeanese and Jeanette, Carlette, and Charles. After her marriage to Arnell, family always remained at the center of Carleane’s life, and she later welcomed her youngest daughter, Antoinette.
A woman of dedication and determination, Carleane served with honor as a Deputy Sheriff for the Cook County Sheriff’s Department for more than 30 years before retiring. Her career reflected her strength of character, compassion for others, and commitment to serving her community. She was also a proud member of the Illinois Sheriff’s Association.
Faith in Christ was the foundation of Carleane’s life. As a longtime member of Hazel Crest Assembly Church, she found joy in worship, fellowship, prayer, and spending time in God’s Word. Through every season of life, she trusted in the Lord’s faithfulness, and her steadfast walk with Jesus was a testimony to those around her.
Carleane also found joy in the simple gifts God graciously gave. She loved planting flowers, tending to her garden, and watching things bloom under her care. Her home was often filled with colorful flowers and the warmth of her kind and caring heart. She deeply cherished time spent with family, holding close the precious memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Preceding Carleane in death is her beloved son, Charles Curtis; her precious daughter, Jeanette Curtis; her stepson, Paul Curtis; and her brothers, Clemon Moore, Ardene Moore, and Joe Moore.
Carleane leaves behind a legacy of strength, grace, and unwavering love. Left to treasure a lifetime of memories are her children, Antoinette Harris (Scott) of Gilbert, AZ, Jeanese Curtis (Judy) of Galesburg, IL, and Carlette Henry of Country Club Hills, IL; her brother, Edward Moore (Ever Jean) of Lake, MS; and her beloved sisters, Vennie Pearl Moore of Niagara Falls, NY, Pearl Gray (Daniel) of Lake, MS, Georgetta Riley (Junior) of Pittsburg, CA, Wanda Faye Session (the late Clarence) of Lincoln, CA, Torrecelli Moore of Newton, MS, and Vivian Sanders (Joseph) of Forest, MS. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Joshua, Nakia, Charlette, Cynthia, and Danielle; her adored great-grandchildren, Craig Jr. and Camari; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Carleane deeply treasured the lifelong, sibling-like relationship she shared with her cousin, Bishop Sammie L. Rankin. She also shared special bonds with her sister-in-law, Irene Moore; Sister Evans and Sister Fuller; and Will Smith, who was like a son to her.
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die”. John 11:25-26 ESV
Visitation will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Hinchliff-Pearson West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will follow at the chapel at 1:00 pm. Carleane will be laid to rest at East Linwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Curtis Family, 1547 Woodbine Circle North, Galesburg, IL, 61401. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
