Jeanne Illingworth, 90, a summer resident of Winona Lake, died March 12, 2008, at her residence in Sun City, Ariz.
She married the Rev. J Davis Illingworth, who survives.
Davis' father Ralph and mother Isabelle built four summer cottages on 15th Street during the 1920s. She and Davis grew up together in the small town of Johnstown, Ohio. It was there that they met in the first grade and were married for 66 years and sweethearts for 85 years. Davis enjoyed his early summers at Winona Lake: boating, fishing and the religious activities. He, in turn, brought Jeanne and their four sons, who have built their own memories and attachments and now bring their wives and children and their children. She and Davis spent their summers at Winona hosting family and friends. Her interest in people created a network of friends that spanned the United States. Their families continue to come and pass on the traditions started so many years ago. Her spirit will live on in the family events celebrated at the home at Winona Lake, and her memory will be in her family's hearts forever and will find peace knowing that her love is eternal. She will be missed, but the traditions she began will continue.
In recent years, she has particularly enjoyed the MasterWorks Festival music programs. Several of the recent concerts were sponsored in honor of Jeanne and Davis.
As a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she will be remembered for her graciousness, warm smile, and hospitality. She always had time to devote to her, sons, their wives, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Also surviving are four sons: Davis Jr. (and spouse Cynthia), Irvine, Calif., and Winona Lake; Curtis (and spouse Mary), San Luis Obispo, Calif.; Paul (and spouse Patty), Castro Valley, Calif.; and Mark (and spouse Jan), Winona Lake; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was Saturday at Faith Presbyterian Church, Sun City, Ariz.
