Wendy S. DeGolyer

Born on September 11, 1969, in Pekin, Wendy was the beloved daughter of Theodore “Ted” H. and Judy K. (Williams) DeGolyer, Jr. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Alleen Thompson and Vern Williams; her paternal grandparents, Theodore and Lois DeGolyer, Sr.; and two aunts, Vickey Farson and Pennie Williams.

Wendy is survived by her loving parents, Ted and Judy DeGolyer of Pekin; her siblings, Tina (Ron) Gilpin, Angie (Timothy) Wissler, and Bradley (Hilary) DeGolyer, all of Pekin; as well as her cherished nieces and nephews: Justin Williams, Jordan Schoenbein, Alyssa Potts, Jacob Potts, Cameron Wissler, Taylor DeGolyer, and Brady DeGolyer. She also leaves behind three great-nieces and nephews—Grayson Williams, Mia Williams, and Sophia Potts—and her faithful dog, Teddy.

Wendy worked as a dishwasher at TCRC in Morton, where she found fulfillment in being of service to others. Known for her warm heart and joyful spirit, Wendy loved helping people and making them laugh.

She was active in her younger years, playing basketball, going bowling and cheerleading at Schramm School in Pekin. She also proudly competed in Special Olympics events, excelling in track and field.

Wendy’s passions included coloring, solving puzzles, painting her nails, and dancing and singing along to her favorite Oldies and Rock and Roll tunes. She had a special talent for bringing joy to everyday moments and making others feel loved.

She had been a member of the congregation at Pekin Union Society in earlier years, attending often with her Grandma Lois DeGolyer and her aunt, Pat Rogers.

Wendy was a woman of simple joys and deep affection; remembered most for her humor, kindness, occasional feistiness and vibrant energy.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Preston-Hanley

Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. A time of sharing and remembrance will begin at 6 p.m. Pastor Chuck Grogan will officiate. A private burial at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to Special Olympics Illinois, 605 E. Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761 or Heart of Illinois Down Syndrome Association, 325 East Queenwood Road, Morton, IL 61550.

To express condolences online, visit preston-hanley.com