Jean L. Keely

Jean L. Keely, 91, of Washington, IL, passed over to be with her LORD at 8:10 p.m. Wednesday, December 7, 2016, at Pleasant View Luther Home in Ottawa, IL, where she had resided for the last 4 years. She was born on February 14, 1925, in Rockford, IL, to the late Leo Lyons and Jennie Jackson Lyons. She married William F. Keely on July 21, 1946 in Rockford, IL. He passed over on October 28, 2002. Surviving are three sons: James (Chris) Keely of Ottawa, IL; Robert (Celeste) Keely of Gray Court, SC; and David (Linda) Keely of Naples, FL. One son John died soon after his birth. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Jean L. Keely taught physical education and coached girls athletics and cheerleading at Washington elementary schools for more than 30 years and also taught at Eureka College. She is one of the 2004 winners of the Studs Terkel Award for Humanities Service for her work organizing the Washington Historical Society Cemetery Walk for many years. She graduated from Rockford College, where she attended on a field hockey scholarship, and later contributed to "WE ARE A COLLEGE AT WAR: WOMEN WORKING FOR VICTORY IN WORLD WAR II," a recent book honoring women and the legacy of Rockford College. She was a member and elder of Washington Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, please take a friend to lunch, as Jean wished. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 16, 2016, at Washington Presbyterian Church in Washington, IL with Pastor Rebecca Weltmann officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior at 10:00 a.m. Burial of her remains will be at a later date in Greenwood Cemetery in Rockford, IL. Memorials in her name may be given to Washington Presbyterian Church and the Washington Historical Society. Mason-White Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements and notes of condolences may be sent using www.masonfuneralhomes.com.