Geneva Gresham

1935 - 2025

WASHINGTON, IL – Geneva "Genny" Gresham passed away peacefully at her home, on December 8, 2025, in Washington, IL.

Born September 5, 1935, in Matthews, North Carolina, to Hurley and Kathleen Killough, Genny was one of ten siblings. Her life was defined by an unwavering faith and a heart for service.

Genny dedicated her career to helping others and was instrumental in launching vital community programs, including the Woodford County Heartline outreach program. She was a Rotary member, elected to the Woodford County Board, received Citizen of the Year in Eureka, served on the first board of the Center for Independent Living in Peoria, and was director of the Heart House shelter in Eureka. She taught Sunday school and served on many church boards. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Washington. Genny will be remembered for her generosity, her devotion to prayer, and her genuine love for people.

While her community impact was great, Genny's greatest joy was her family. She was the matriarch of a large and vibrant family, cherishing her role as a grandmother across several generations.

Genny was a mother to eight children. She is survived by her children: Geni Kalley (Ron) of GA; Scott Rhoades (Kathy) of NC; Steven Rhoades (Angel) of NC; Danette Bellman (Steve) of IL; Kathy Brucker (Bruce) of IL; and Wally Gresham of SC. She is also survived by her siblings Judy Dickerson of SC; Ed Killough (Diane) of NC; Carrie Dennis of SC; and Mary Strong (Nick) of SC.

She was blessed with 27 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great- grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Joe, Peggy, Lynda, Larry, and Jimmy; and two children: Perry Rhoades (Carol) and Karen Gresham.

A private graveside memorial will be held with her family at a later date. Memorials may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation (https://www.parkinson.org/).