Mrs. Josephine (Thompson) Boone

Josephine (Thompson) Boone, 79, of Peoria, IL passed away peacefully at her daughter, Desiree’s home, surrounded by her family at 12:36 AM on Monday, January 19, 2015. Josephine was born on December 6, 1935 in Peoria, IL to Joseph and Sarah Ray (Oden) Thompson. She married the love of her life, Ronald Boone on October 26, 1952 in Peoria. They were married over 62 years when he preceded her in death on March 14, 2014. Josephine leaves to cherish her most precious memories her devoted and loving children; two daughters, Desiree D. Boone and Rhonda M. Boone; two sons, Duane Douglas and Durwin Dean (Sandra Kay) Boone; one dear brother-n- law, Andrew (Judith) Boone; 7 grandchildren, Joseph C. Knox, Durwin D. Boone, Demario Boone, Jason Allen Boone, Isaiah J. Boone, Alisha L. Williams and Janae R. Williams; 9 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Homer C. Jackson, Sr. of Buffalo, New York and William Thompson of Peoria, IL; three sisters: Anna M. Boone and Wanda L. Alexander both of Milwaukee, WI and Helen Gadson of Peoria, IL; and great grand twins, Janiya and Jaiden Knox of Cincinnati, OH. Josephine was baptized at an early age at Mt. Zion M.B. Church, the Fourth & Sheridan Street location, where she was an active member under the leadership of Rev. R. Wendell Phillips and later Rev. Alphonso Lyons. She was educated in the Peoria School System attending Hines Grade School and Woodruff High School. She worked for Caterpillar for over 30 years, last working as in Accounting at the LD Bldg, retiring July 1, 1999. When her children where in school, Josephine was an active member of the PTO for District 150 where she held the office of secretary and treasurer for many years. She was Past Worthy Matron of Silver Star Chapter 74 O.E.S., Prince Hall Affiliated of the State of Illinois and its Jurisdiction, Past Loyal Lady Ruler of Menelik Assembly #58 Order of the Golden Circle and Past Illustrious Commandress of Kamar Court # 113 of Springfield, Illinois. Josephine was also affiliated with the NAACP, Food Shelter (distributing Christmas Baskets), the YWCA, Red Cross and various clothing drives she organized and a participant in the Komen Race for the Cure. Josephine loved her family and friends and enjoyed spending time with them. Josephine was a lifelong member of Mt. Zion M. B. Church where funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, January 31, 2015 with a visitation one hour prior beginning at 9 AM. Pastor Alphonso Lyons will officiate. Josephine will be laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery along with her beloved husband. Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice or the Central Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com.

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Mrs. Josephine (Thompson) Boone

December 6, 1935 - January 19, 2015