Althea B. Cooley, 76, of Springfield, died at 11:05 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2003 at Memorial Medical Center. Althea was born January 23, 1927 in Chicago the daughter of William and Maude Hall Winnett. She married Howard Blanchard; he preceded her in death. Mrs. Cooley, a graduate of Northwestern University, was employed as a secretary for Make-A-Wish Foundation and later for Red Cross. She was also preceded in death by her parents and sister, Floy Wray. She is survived by three daughters: Peggy (husband, David Balestri) Richardson of Springfield, Janet (husband, John) Wilkens of Covina, CA, Debbie (husband, Chuck) Crimmins of Chino, CA; ten grandchildren; thirty-four great grandchildren; six step-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Remains were cremated. The family of Althea B. Cooley is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.
