Elizabeth Durnell

1936 - 2026

Elizabeth Durnell, 89, of South Settlement Road, passed away Tuesday (January 6, 2026) with her loving family by her side.

Born January 18, 1936, in Kane, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Selma (Carlson) Mohney.  On July 9, 1955, she married Ira "Herk" Durnell, who survives. Together they shared 70 wonderful devoted years of marriage.

Elizabeth was a graduate of Kane High School and was employed throughout her lifetime by Sears, US Forest Service and Ham Dam products.  Her most important role in life was being a homemaker and a caring loving wife, mother, "NaNa", sister and friend, as well as a special aunt to her many nieces and nephews.

Liz loved gardening and grew beautiful flowers.  Up until the end, Liz maintained her kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of family and friends and expressed her gratitude for her long life.

Surviving, in addition to her husband, Ira, are a daughter, Cindy (Ricky) Smith; a son, Steve (Jackie) Durnell, all of Kane;  four sisters, Ann (Dave) Kearney, Patricia (John) Moore, Sandy (Harry) Spaulding and Sue (Tim)Mishic; a brother, Henry (Dotty) Mohney; five grandchildren, Kyle (Allie) Durnell, Jacob Durnell, Vanessa Hannah, Tyler (Brooke) Smith, Zachary (Shelby) Smith; and three great-grandchildren, Chase Ira, Willow Mae and Elizabeth, with a fourth great-grandchild on the way in April. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Frank "Rich" Mohney, a sister, Ruth Branigan and a brother in infancy.

A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.  Interment will be in Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Memorials in memory of Liz,  if desired, can be sent to the Kane Lions Club, PO Box 507, Kane  or a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences can be expressed at cummingsfh.com.

The Cummings Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.