Mrs. Joyce Ann Olinger, 88, of Abingdon, passed away peacefully at 3:26 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Settler’s Grove in Knoxville.
Joyce was born on September 6, 1937, in Monmouth, Illinois, to William Leonard and Elsie Eleanor (Rose) Peterson. She was raised on the family farm in Gerlaw, where she developed the strong work ethic, quiet determination, and caring spirit that would define her throughout her life. She attended a one-room country school before graduating from Monmouth High School in 1956. She later worked as a bookkeeper for a local firm in Galesburg before marrying the love of her life, Robert E. “Oly” Olinger, on March 3, 1956.
Together, Joyce and Oly built a life centered on faith, family, and farming. While raising their five children, Joyce devoted herself to creating a loving home and helping with the daily responsibilities of the family farm. Joyce and Oly shared 68 wonderful years of marriage before his passing on October 1, 2024. Their enduring partnership was a beautiful example of commitment, hard work, and devotion.
When their children were older, Joyce began a career at Gates Rubber Company, where she worked for more than 30 years. She was proud to be one of the first women to work in the manufacturing department, earning the respect of her coworkers through her dedication and willingness to take on any challenge. Her strong work ethic never faded, whether she was at work, at home, or lending a helping hand to someone in need.
Following retirement, Joyce and Oly embraced the freedom to travel, creating countless cherished memories while camping throughout the country in their RV and later their fifth wheel. From the deserts of Arizona to the warmth of Texas and many places in between, they treasured the adventures they shared and the friendships they made along the way.
Joyce believed there was always something worthwhile to do. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—cross-stitching beautiful keepsakes, reading a good book, tending to her colorful flower gardens and tomato plants, and later discovering a passion for photography that allowed her to capture the beauty around her.
Her family will especially remember Joyce for the love she expressed through her baking. She often joked that she was known more for her baking than her cooking, but there was never any doubt that her homemade scratch apple cake and light, fluffy angel food cake were family favorites. Every birthday was made special because Joyce lovingly baked each family member the cake of their choice, a tradition that became one of her greatest gifts of love. Her kitchen was a place where stories were shared, laughter was plentiful, and everyone always felt welcome. A woman of quiet but steadfast faith, Joyce found comfort and strength through her personal Bible study and as a faithful member of Abingdon Christian Church.
Joyce’s greatest pride and joy was her family. Left to cherish her memory are her five children: Steve Olinger of Pekin, Illinois; Don (Haydee) Olinger of Park Ridge, Illinois; Teresa (the late Jerry) Allen; Chris (Barb Brush) Olinger; and Jody (Jack) Way, all of Abingdon. She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-grandchild on the way, nine great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives were enriched by her love and gentle spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Oly; and her sister and brother-in-law, June and Ron Pinson.
Private family graveside services will be held at Haynes Cemetery in Delong, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to establish a memorial fund in Joyce’s name. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services, Abingdon Chapel, is honored to assist the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
