Elizabeth A. “Libby” Early, 69, of Rockford, IL, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Sunday, August 11, 2024. She passed peacefully after a lengthy illness surrounded by her loving family. Libby was born September 13, 1954 in Dodgeville, WI to Harold and Twylah (LaFlash) Ricketts. She was a graduate of the class of 1972 from Stillman Valley High School, and went on to be a loving homemaker and mother of two devoted daughters, Natasha “Tasha” Early and Hayley (Beach) Worley, both of Rockford, IL.
Libby was a devoutly faithful Christian and enjoyed many activities and ongoings at her Church. In earlier years she attended services at Lighthouse Temple, and then to Firstborn Ministries of Loves Park, IL. She loved all both places of worship and in addition to attending services and activities, Libby was an active volunteer with the ministry services; making food for the sick or visiting shut-ins, but, her most recent active years she loved working as a volunteer for the food pantry at Firstborn Ministries. She always believed deeply that Christianity meant being of service to others in need.
Libby’s warm and caring nature was most evident on the affection and support she would bestow upon her many grandchildren, always making sure to be there for any activities and events in their lives. Spending time with family and friends was always a joy for her. She also loved nature and gardening, flowers being her favorite to tend. She adored collecting bees to decorate her kitchen, often finding them at her favorite thrift stores, as thrift shopping was another beloved pastime Libby enjoyed doing with family. Her family’s Native American Heritage was also very important to her as was evident by her beautiful collection of Native American artworks and items.
Libby is greatly loved and missed by surviving family; her two daughters, Hayley (Rex) Worley, and Natasha (Scott Buchanan) Early; six grandchildren, Austin Worley, Kolton Worley, Jace Worley, Bryce Worley, Emmagyn and Blake Buchanan; Sister, Crystal Huber; special nephew, Nathan Huber, as well as numerous other extended family and loving friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Twylah Ricketts; brother-in-law, Brian Huber, along with several other aunts, uncles and cousins.
A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, August 30, 2024 at Advantage Funeral Home: 7000 W. State Street, Rockford, IL 61102. Funeral services will also be held at Advantage at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 31, 2024 promptly proceeded by internment at Lightsville Cemetery, Leaf River, IL. To share condolences and special memories, please visit www.advantagerockford.com.
