Phil Lowery

Phillip (Phil) Eugene Lowery Sr., born December 21, 1935, to Denzil and Priscilla (McElravy) Lowery in Jefferson County, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 in Rockford, Illinois.

Phil grew up near Bluford, IL and graduated from Webber Township High School in 1954. He moved to northern Illinois as a young adult, where he met the love of his life, Madlyn Johnson, at the Hillside Drive-In in South Beloit. Madlyn and Phil eloped in Mattoon, Illinois on March 8, 1958; they were proudly married for over 67 years.

After living in the Rockford area during the early years of their marriage, Phil and Madlyn settled into their longtime home in Roscoe, where they cultivated many happy memories. Phil loved watching and feeding the birds, collecting antiques, and caring for the many dogs he had over the years.

Known for his steadfast work ethic, Phil was never one to slow down. Though he often worked multiple jobs, the bulk of his career was spent at Mattison Machine Works for 42 years. When he retired, he stayed busy with working on his son-in-law's farm, helping with countless home renovation projects, and maintaining his lawn and garden.

Many family vacations were spent camping in Wisconsin, traveling out west, and spending quiet mornings fishing. At home, summers were often marked by time spent in the backyard with his grandchildren, under the pear tree or in the pool, building memories they will never forget. In his later years, he cherished weekly phone calls with family members near and far, as well as visits with his children and grandchildren.

Phil's loyalty and dedication to his family in particular were constants throughout his life. His life, love, and steady friendship set an example that will never be forgotten. He was deeply loved, and his presence will be profoundly missed.

He is survived by his children: Phillip Lowery Jr. (Tammy Burnett), Jeffrey Lowery, and Jody (Brian) Gummow; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his brothers, Dale and Denzil Jr.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Marjorie Rogers Welch, Barbara Body, and Dian Powell, and 6 brother and sister-in-laws.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Roscoe/Rockton Fire Department, the staff at UW Northern Illinois Hospital, and the palliative care team for their compassion and support. They would also like to express deep gratitude to his friend Shirley Howard for the attentive care and companionship he provided in Phil's later years.

A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31, 2026 in McCorkle Funeral Home - Rockton Chapel, 767 N. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton, Illinois with Pastor Eric Lemonholm officiating. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until time of service, Saturday. Burial in Floral Lawn Cemetery in South Beloit, Illinois.