Mrs. Helen M. McCormick

Mrs. Helen M. McCormick, 79, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly at 11:46 p.m. Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.

She was born April 13, 1946, in Galesburg, the daughter of Thure and Esther (Olson) Swanson. Helen married James E. McCormick, Jr. on July 10, 1970, in Galesburg, and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.

Helen is survived by her husband, Jim McCormick of Galesburg; five daughters, Lynn (Dave) Crosiar of Orion, Illinois, Shirley (Todd) Kistler of Altona, Illinois, Donna (Bill) Holden of Oneida, Illinois, Kris (Ryan) Dillbeck of Oneida, and Marie Roe of Pontiac; one son, Donnie Smallwood of Cameron, Illinois; two brothers, Edward Swanson of Colorado and Benard Swanson of Galesburg; twelve grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Mary McCombs and Ruth Basham.

Helen dedicated 34 years to Galesburg Cottage Hospital, working in central processing. Above all, she was a devoted homemaker who lovingly cared for her husband and children. She found great joy in gardening and baking-especially baking pies-and cherished time spent with her family, particularly during the Thanksgiving holiday.

As she requested, cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family.

Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.