Nerine E. "Nikki" Gifford

Nerine E. "Nikki" Gifford (nee Northway)
Went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the remarkable age of 101 years. She is lovingly survived by her daughters Noel (Charles) and Tara. Her sons Dean (Debbie), Kurt (Diane), Quin, and Glen (Kumi). Cherished grandmother of Carl (Sylwia), Karalynn (Adam), Erick (Angela), Kathe (Johnny), Arthur, Jaime, Michael, Matthew (Mindy), Marisa (Brian), Tom, and Brian. Adored great-grandmother of Alise, Eva, Colin, Adynn, Kody, Liam, Akira, Zelda, Cassandra, Payton, Tristan, Jennylynn, Shayla, Skyler, Keith, Cadence, Emily, Gianna, Aden, Savanna, Logan, Carter, Ella, and Evalyn. She is also survived by her loving siblings Gail and Lynn, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Nerine was preceded in death by her beloved husband Raymond Gifford. Her son Reed and his wife, Kris. Her great-granddaughter Kendall and her siblings Paula, Richard, and Allyne. Affectionately known to family and friends as "Nikki" and "Mama G," Nerine lived a life devoted to her faith and to serving others in the name of Jesus Christ. She shared her musical gifts for over 70 years as a pianist and church organist-first at Faith Lutheran Church in Minneapolis (1939–1961) and then at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Joliet (1961–2009). She faithfully accompanied countless youth in their state music competitions, led the Braille group in printing books of the Bible to spread the Gospel, sang in the choir, and was an active member of the Ladies Guild and the Lutheran Women's Missionary League. A gifted artist, Nerine wrote and illustrated a treasured children's poetry book filled with wonder and imagination. Her artistry could also be seen in the special designs she created for festival church bulletins, church banners, and her much-anticipated Christmas cards. She and her husband, along with their seven children, enjoyed frequent family trips throughout the United States and Canada-visiting relatives, camping, and exploring national parks and other points of interest. Her kind heart, steadfast faith, and radiant smile will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her. Lying in State at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1910 Black Rd, Saturday, August 16th from 9:30 A.M. until time of services at 10:00 A.M. Rev. Matt Carlson officiating. Interment will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park II. Memorials to Our Savior Lutheran Church will be appreciated. Visitation will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Friday, August 15th from 4:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. For information please call (815) 744-0022 or visit www.CHSFUNERAL.com