Sylvia A. Kalley

Peoria ? Sylvia A. Kalley, 75, of Peoria, formerly of Metamora, Illinois passed away peacefully on May 6, 2012 at 6:05AM at Snyder Village in Metamora. She was born on August 7, 1936 in Metamora, IL the daughter of Lester and Mildred (Schupp) Gilliatt. She married Ted Kalley and together they raised three children. Ron (Geni) Kalley of Normal, IL, Jeanie (Denis) Cyr of Peoria, IL, and Tim (Jeanine) Kalley of San Diego, CA. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Nicole (LaMont) Andrews, Sean (Stephanie) Kalley, Gavin (Courtney) Kalley, Gabrielle, Isabella, Katelyn and Lauren; and four great-grandchildren, Darien, Camryn, Gage and Campbell. She is further survived by two sisters, Nancy (Russ "Bing") Grebner and Diane Gude both of Metamora; plus many nieces and nephews. Sylvia attended Oak Hill Grade School and Metamora High School. She loved school and excelled in spelling and writing; she had beautiful handwriting and loved sending hand-written letters. She spent many years taking care of her family. She was very proud of all her children and their accomplishments. As her children grew she decided to work outside the home. She worked at the Metamora Herald and the Homestead Restaurant. However, most people remember her as the owner of The Country Clothes Rack, women?s clothing store, on the Square in Metamora and also through her 26 years of service at Metamora Woodworking. She retired in 2010. Sylvia loved spending time with her grandchildren; decorating her room with their pictures. She carried an envelope of current pictures with her, anxious to share them with friends. She also enjoyed visiting with her sisters on a regular basis. They have always been a source of strength and comfort, especially during her illness. She always made time for others and was a great listener. She made a point of remembering everyone?s name, birthday, anniversary and occasion. She loved to make people feel special and would spend a lot of time picking out the perfect gift and card, always including a personal note. Over the years she had the opportunity to travel and enjoyed making new friends along the way. She was a great dancer and loved watching "Dancing with the Stars." She also spent her time reading, shopping and going to the movies or lunch with friends. Sylvia was a devoted sister, mother, grandmother and friend; dearly loved by all. She will be missed by those who knew her best and loved her most. She attended Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria. She especially enjoyed the church?s annual Christmas concert. A memorial service will be at 12 Noon Thursday, May 10, 2012 at Mason Funeral Home, Metamora Chapel with Pastor Douglas Lightly officiating. Visitation will be held from 10AM until service time, at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. Private burial of ashes will be at St. Mary?s Cemetery in Metamora at a later date. Memorials may be made to Snyder Village. Online tributes and notes of condolences for the family may be sent using www.masonfuneralhomes.com