Rhonda M. Risley

Rhonda Maureen Griffin Risley, 63, of Quincy, passed away at 7:09 pm Friday, August 29, 2025, at her home in Quincy, IL.

Rhonda, the daughter of Ronald Wayne and Barbara Jean Griffin, was born November 27, 1961, at St. Mary's Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Rhonda's early education began at Jefferson Grade School in Quincy. In 1969, her family moved to Mendon, IL, where she continued her schooling, attending Mendon Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. A proud graduate of Unity High School with the class of 1979, Rhonda was an active participant in sports and band, leaving a legacy of teamwork and school spirit that was later honored when she was inducted into the Unity Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.

For 16 years, Rhonda dedicated her professional life to Transitions of Western Illinois, a tenure she often spoke of as life-changing. Her work there not only impacted many lives but also brought her a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Rhonda's love for her family and friends was unparalleled. She was the heart of every gathering, bringing warmth and enthusiasm that drew people to her. An avid sports fan, Rhonda's loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys was well-known. Her love extended to her pets, Patches Jean and Elsie Mae, and she held a special place in her heart for her late dogs, Spudley and Bruce.

Her adventurous spirit found joy in the simplicity of nature; from fishing and camping to boat rides on the Mississippi River. The Smoky Mountains held a special allure for Rhonda, where she dreamt of one day living in a cabin nestled within their majestic beauty. While she enjoyed the thrill of gambling, she cherished the fun of the experience over the outcome.

Rhonda is survived by her loving siblings, Robin (Jeff) Dieker of Matthews, NC, Rebecca (Bob) Groce of Quincy, IL, and Bradley (Nicole Davidson) Griffin of Pontiac, MI. Her nieces and nephews, Natosha, Daelin, Kenzie, Adalyn, Ensley, Kelsey, Evie, Laila, Linley, Lydia, Jeremy, Kenny, Harley, Caleb, Derek, Connor, Issac, Auggie, Lincoln, and Grayson will miss her playful spirit and unwavering support.

Preceded in death by her parents Ronald and Barbara Griffin, a brother Derek Griffin, her grandparents Jessie and Nellie Griffin, Marcellus Wand, Helene Lucille Wand Simpson, and William Simpson, Rhonda leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the courage to embrace life's adventures. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all the lives she touched.

Friends and Family are invited to Rhonda's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. Attendees are encouraged to wear casual clothing with jeans and Dallas Cowboy related logos. A Funeral Ceremony will follow at 11:00 am with Dr. Tom Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Quincy, IL. Join us to celebrate the life of Rhonda at South Side Boat Club immediately following graveside services. Please feel free to bring a covered dish to her celebration of life.

Memorial contributions may be made to Quincy Humane Society or Quincy Special Olympics.