On December 30, 2022, Lori Jean (McWilliams) Gassaway, 61, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep at her home in Rockford, IL.

We will be having a Celebration of Lori on Saturday, February 18th from 1–4pm at Pearce Community Center, 610 Cedar St., Chillicothe, IL. 

We will be serving food (some of Lori’s favorites), drinks, and desserts. Dress casually, wear your Cubs or Bears attire, too. We will have a Tribute Sharing at 2pm for anyone that would like to share any memories of Lori. If you are unable to attend, but would like to share a memory, please email Susan at [email protected] and we will share it with everyone. 

Lori was born in Peoria, IL, on May 19, 1961, daughter of Don and Norma (Schaffner) McWilliams. She graduated from IVC High School, Class of 1979, Chillicothe, IL. Lori then earned her associate degree from ICC, East Peoria, IL. She married Darren J. Gassaway on March 17, 1998, in Rockford. Lori most recently worked as a Benefits Specialist with the Rockford Park District for many dedicated years, and formerly held a similar position with the Rockford Public Schools system.

She enjoyed reading, traveling, and attending barbeque competitions with her husband, Darren. She loved her diet coke and ranch dressing, and she was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Lori had a special love for her family pets, Cubbie, Ernie, and Rexy. Most of all, Lori cherished her time spent with family, making memories, and was always taking care of them.

Surviving relatives include her husband, Darren Gassaway; children, Jason (Dani) Razo of Minneapolis and Michelle Razo of Rockford; stepdaughter, Megan Gassaway; mother, Norma McWilliams; sisters, Debbie (Don) McCollum and Susan (Todd) Lawson; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; parents-in-law, James and Brigid Gassaway; and her beloved family pets, Cubbie, Ernie, and Rexy. Lori is predeceased by her father, Don McWilliams.

Memorials can be made in Lori’s name to the Rock River Valley Pantry, 421 S. Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61102 or www.rrvp.org.