Velma M Widby

Born August 11, 1925 in Pekin to Charles T. and Louise N. (Hancock) Vaughn, she married John A. Widby on September 18. 1949 in Pekin. He died November 5, 1994. She was also preceded in death by her parents; two sons, David Widby and Michael Widby; and three brothers, Thomas Vaughn, Roy Vaughn, and Charles “Jack” Vaughn.

Surviving are one son, James “Jim” (Julie) Widby of Green Valley; two grandchildren, Marlana (Mark) Montgomery of Pekin and Wesley (Deidre) Bussey of Green Valley; five great-grandchildren, Jaylah (Lucas) Campbell of Jacksonville, Florida, Macey (Jacob) Wilson of Pekin, Gaige Montgomery of Farmington, Maxton Montgomery of Pekin, and Stella Bussey of Green Valley; and many nieces and nephews.

A homemaker, Velma was a lifelong Pekin resident. She had a true love for others and was a friend to everyone.

Velma was a devoted member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pekin and the St. John’s Guild. She also served on many other committees at the church.

Velma enjoyed doing word searches and puzzles, and baking. She was known for her cinnamon and dinner rolls. She was a faithful reader of the Bible and shared her faith with others.

Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pekin. The Rev. Daniel J. Bishop will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin and also from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 711 Court Street, Pekin, Illinois 61554 or to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, 8630 Illinois Route 91, Peoria, Illinois 61615.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com