Kay Gillan

MORTON – Kay M. Gillan, 86, of Morton, passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022, at Reflections Memory Care in Morton, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Pekin, Ill., on July 23, 1935, to Clark O. and Nina (McQueen) Barton. She married her loving husband of 63 years, Loren Gillan, on August 26, 1956. He preceded her in death on November 15, 2019. She was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Cheryl Diane.
Kay is survived by 3 daughters, Lora (Rich) Kober, Jan (Marc) Anthony, and Lynn (Travis) Langenbach; grandchildren, Josh (Jess) Kober, Erika (Tyler) Walschaert, Victoria (Jeff) Helmer, Drake Anthony, Elesa Anthony, Cheryl Langenbach, and Aaron Langenbach; great-grandchildren, Abram and Eva Kober and Rhiannon Walshaert; cousin, Rita (Johnson) Woerly; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Kay was a fun grandma and the family enjoyed their swimming pool for many years, complete with her famous freezer pops. The family will cherish these wonderful memories of family fun with them!
Kay worked at many offices during her career. She later discovered her gift of hospitality and used this gift during her time as a flight attendant for Northwest Airlines, before becoming a chaperone for Peoria Charter. She made everyone feel special with her infectious smile.
Kay loved the Lord and served Him faithfully throughout her lifetime. She enjoyed growing her faith through fellowship and Bible studies, as well as serving with her friends on the Funeral Committee at Grace Church, where she was a longtime member.
A private family service will be held. Kay will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont.
The family would like to thank Transitions Hospice and Reflections Memory Care for their incredible love and care during Kay’s long illness. They became part of her family during this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Research.
Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements.
To leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.knappjohnson.com.