Mary "Joj" Jo Norrell

PEKIN ~Mary Jo “Joj” Norrell (Gummerson), 59, of Pekin, formerly of Canton, peacefully transitioned to her earned place in Heaven on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 10:40 p.m. surrounded by loved ones at home. She battled cancer for five years in which she so bravely accepted and fought.

She was born June 23, 1966, in Peoria to Joseph E. and Carol M. (Turner) Gummerson.

She was preceded in death by her loving siblings; Jimmy Gummerson and Theresa Gummerson; her father, Joseph E. Gummerson and her grandparents whom she loved dearly. Joj was eagerly waiting to be reunited with her family in Heaven and her late friend, Denise Brown.

Surviving loved ones are her devoted mother, Carol M. Gummerson; her sisters, Debra (Tim) Robbins and Susan (Steve) Verardo; her Aunt Mary Heyl of Georgia; her; her children which were her world, Brad (Kayla) Norrell, Breeanon (Joey) Stiers and Bailee (John) Kirby and the loves of her life were her grandchildren; Reese, Madison, Mason, Layne and Londyn.

She also cherished her relationships with her lifelong soulmates, Caprice Sweatt and Kelli Ferguson.

Joj was a graduate of Canton High School and worked as a CNA and Home Health caretaker for many years in the Canton area.

She loved to explore outdoors whether she was walking in the woods, on the water, or just relaxing outside. She felt deeply connected to elephants and treasured the profound experience they gave her while she toured South Africa. She was an avid music lover and showed her kids the best of the best.

She loved to be around her kids, grandkids and furry grandbabies. She also loved to play games with family and friends and appreciated intimate settings for creating the best memories. She was always very witty, loved to joke, laugh and enjoy the little things in life.

Her physical absence will forever leave a heartbreaking void. Her soul and spirit will always be watching over her family continuing to shine her unconditional love.

We can’t wait to be with you for eternity.

Love, your family.

At Mary Jo’s request, there will be no services. In memory of Joj, there will be a plaque placed next to her family in Lewiston. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at cff.org