Lynn A. Lillie

She was born in Beloit, WI, on May 15, 1963, to Glenda and Jerry Simmons.

She was raised in Peoria, IL, and attended school there. At age 18, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy where she served 8 years mostly in Charleston, SC. She served on the USS Alamagordo and the USS Frank Cable.

After leaving the Navy, she returned to her hometown, Peoria, IL, where she attended Bradley University, majoring in computer science. She then began her career with State of Illinois, working in the state lottery system.

In 1999, she married her longtime partner, James Lillie, who survives her.

Lynn loved the ocean, traveling with her mother, playing cards, and riverboats. Lynn’s greatest joys were her children and grandchildren. For the last 10 years, she struggled with poor health and the children and grandchildren helped her to keep going.

Lynn’s strong spirit will live on in her children and grandchildren, Kristina Lillie of Pekin, Patrick (Kelsey) Lillie of Springfield, Richard (Stephanie) Simmons of Chatham, Kristin (Nicholas) Biermann of Chatham, and Annette (Andrew) Feeler of Monticello; grandchildren, Bradley Simmons, Ella Simmons, Alexis Feeler, Joshua Feeler, Logan Feeler, Noah Burris, Connor Biermann, Ebben Biermann, Stosh Biermann, Greyson Biermann, McKenna Simmons, and Ronan Lillie. Also surviving are husband, James; sisters, Susette (Ramie) Poe of Texas and Glenda (Chris) Lowery of East Peoria; and brother, Jerry (Renee) Simmons of Arizona.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Glenda Ulrich; father, Jery Simons; stepfather, Walter Ulrich; and grandson, Ryan Michael Simmons.

Lynn family and friends loved her and will miss her. She was a special person.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.