Judith Ann Tinnon

Judy was born to Raymond and Norma Birkel in Peoria, Illinois, on May 14, 1947. On July 30, 1966, she married her high school sweetheart, Ed Tinnon. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, laughter, and countless memories over 60 years of marriage. Ed survives her and will forever cherish the life they shared and the love they built together.

Judy is also survived by her four daughters, whom she adored beyond measure: Kelly (Jeff) Rupp, Keri (Pat) O’Connor, Kristen (Heath) Hubbuch, and Kandi (Vanessa) Pedraza. She leaves behind eight grandchildren, who were among the greatest joys of her life: Abbie Tinnon, Bailey O’Connor, Cody Rupp, Jordan Rupp, Zach O’Connor, Logan Pedraza, Alex Rupp, and Mason Pedraza. Her family will make sure that “MawMaw” is lovingly remembered by her great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Pedraza and Myloh O’Connor, as well as two new great-grandbabies who are on the way. She is also survived by her sister, Jeri (Tommy) Holbrook, and her brothers, Jeff (Susan) Birkel and John (Lori) Birkel.

Judy devoted many years to being a stay-at-home mom, pouring her heart into raising her children and caring for the love of her life, Ed. In later years, she drove a bus for Limestone High School and waited tables at Bartonville Pancake House. Wherever Judy went, she left an impression. Her magnetic personality, quick smile, and genuine love for people made her unforgettable, and those who knew her often remembered her fondly for years afterward.

In retirement, Judy found joy in the simple pleasures she loved most. She could rarely pass a garage sale without stopping, and Goodwill stores were among her favorite places to browse, shop, and—most importantly—chat. Judy never knew a stranger. She had a gift for making people feel welcome, seen, and loved. And there was perhaps no sight more beautiful than Judy seeing a baby; her face would light up with a tenderness that revealed just how deeply she loved. Her charm was boundless, her compassion generous, and her love was given freely. She will be missed every single day by the many people whose lives she touched.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Ruth and Glen Harbors; her mother, Norma Birkel; her father, Ray Birkel; and her brother, Jack Birkel. We take comfort in knowing that a host of beloved family members and friends were waiting to welcome her home.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church in Bartonville, Illinois, followed by a funeral service at the church at 11:30. A luncheon will follow in the church kitchen, and all are welcome to join the family in celebrating Judy’s life and honoring one of her greatest love languages: feeding the people she loved.

A private interment will take place in the columbarium at St. John Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. John Cemetery to help ensure a beautiful and peaceful resting place for all to enjoy.

Judy leaves behind a lifetime of love, a family who adored her, and memories that will be carried forward for generations. Though her absence will be deeply felt, her laughter, her kindness, her love of family, and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel like someone special will remain with us always.