Walter Covington

Walter “Dean” Covington, 90, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away at 11:32 a.m. Sunday, August 24, 2025 at his home.

Born November 5, 1934 in Peoria to Wallace W. and Norma L. (Knight) Covington, he married Gwendolyn “Gwen” Faye Scoles on August 5, 1955 in Peoria. She died February 26, 2001 in Peoria. Walter was also preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Tonya (Brian) Gower and one sister, Melba Swingle.

Surviving are one son, Kevin (Holly) Covington of Pekin; one daughter, Candace (Luke Peters) Hart of Pekin; seven grandchildren, Amanda Beal, Gavynn Covington, Ian Covington, Ava Covington, Landon (Madison Martin) Hart, Cali Demure and Colton Gower; eight great-grandchildren, Maverick Demure, Liam Demure, Keeley Covington, Gwendolyn Covington, Ashlyn Strubar, Braylynn Johnson, Kaydence Covington and Camden Gower and one sister, Ina (Ron) Wernsman of Metamora.

Dean worked as a brakeman conductor for 29 years at Chicago Northwestern Railroad, later bought out by Union Pacific Railroad, retiring in January of 2002. Previously he worked at Laidlaw Wire Co. for 21 years.

He was a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan, knowing every player’s name and watched all the games up until his final days. He also prided himself on making his famous chili for all his family and friends. He loved watching and feeding the birds in his yard, fishing, gardening, and beachcombing.

Dean helped his neighbors and family out without hesitation. He loved his children and grandchildren immensely! He loved living in Arkansas as it was his favorite place to be and enjoyed keeping his property well maintained. He was loved by many people.

His funeral service will be at noon Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Steve Weber will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Pekin.

Memorial donations may be given to American Cancer Society, One East Wacker, Suite 1500, Chicago, Illinois 60601.