Phyllis Gorney

Age 86 of Wilmington, Illinois, died Monday, August 5, 2024, at Lightways Hospice, in Joliet Illinois. 

Born January 6, 1938, in Charleston, West Virgina, Phyllis Jean was a daughter of Aaron Dean and Lilian (Mouser) Dean. She was raised and educated in Buckhannon, West Virginia and graduated from Buckhannon - Upshur High School, with the class of 1956. 

On March 2, 1973, Phyllis married Francis J. Gorney Jr., and he preceded her in death on November 8, 2015. 

Phyllis spent her working years in local retail shops, and bookkeeping for her husband's house repair service. She was a proud member of the Lakewood Shores Improvement Association, where she served as Treasurer. 

In her leisure time, she enjoyed the fresh air while sitting in her garden and tending to the flowers. Phyllis was a fantastic gardener, and her green thumb was evident in the vibrant blooms she nurtured. She had led a very fulfilling life, always keeping herself busy, and sharing her love with her husband, family, and friends.

"It takes courage to forgive", was one of Phyllis' final sentiments, proving her unwavering ability to approach life's challenges with grace. 

Phyllis is survived by her four step-children: Frank Gorney III, Christal Rivera, Rebecca Haga, and Lucille Rodgers; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; five siblings: Irene Hood, David (Debbie) Dean, Virginia Kline, James (Julie) Dean, and Roy (Sandra) Dean.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Frank; stepson, Charles Faurot; one grandson; one great-grandson, and one brother, William Dean.  

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington, on Tuesday August 13, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. 

Inurnment will follow at 12:30 a.m. in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois, where Phyllis will be laid to rest with her late husband Frank. 

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Phyllis' memory to a family in need. 

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Phyllis’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory (815-476-2181)