Myrna I. Moats, 80, formerly of Yates City, died at 9:40 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2020, in Roseville Rehab and Health Care Center.
She was born October 29, 1939, in Galesburg, the daughter of John Victor and Ethyl May (Miller) Mahnesmith. She married James R. “Jim” Moats on April 3, 1956. He preceded her in death on December 27, 2019, after nearly 64 years of marriage.
She is survived by four children, James D. Moats of Wyoming, Illinois, Mark (Angela Orin) Moats of LaVista, Nebraska, Christine (Samuel) Smith of Bushnell, and Brian (Laura Wright) Moats of Galesburg; seven grandchildren, Cassandra (Justin) Williams, C.J., Rocky, and Douglas Moats, Breanna Smith, Brooke Smith, and Adam Moats; two step grandchildren, Andrew and Ashley Smith; four great grandchildren, Jocelynn, Colt, Carson, and Gabriel; two brothers, Norman Mahnesmith of Knoxville and Kenny (Dixie) Mahnesmith of Galesburg; a sister, Janie (Sonny) Lucas of Wataga; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; daughter-in-law, Peggy Moats; six brothers, Junior, Owen, Dave, Jay, Rollin, and DeWayne Mahnesmith; and a sister, Mary Hiatt.
Myrna was raised in Knoxville. She was a devoted homemaker and mother to her family. She attended Calvary Baptist Church in Canton and Bushnell Christian Church. Myrna enjoyed camping, fishing, yard sales, attending the scenic drive, and especially loved spending time with her family.
Due to social distancing limitations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, friends may pay their respects from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2020 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. The family will not be present. Private family graveside service will be Saturday, April 18, 2020 in East Linwood Cemetery with Pastor Katie Gallagher officiating. A public celebration of life will be planned at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
