Mrs. Ruth M. (Gregg) McKee

Ruth M. McKee, 99, formerly of Rio, died at 12:50 a.m. Sunday, November 18, 2018 in the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville.

She was born May 15, 1919, in Galesburg, the daughter of Clarence A. and Laura (Wadsworth) Gregg.  She married Dale E. McKee on July 6, 1947, in Galesburg.  He preceded her in death on November 24, 2007 after 60 years of marriage.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia (Donald) Higgerson of Rio; three grandchildren, Alicia (Scott) Burge of Seymour, Jared (Lindsay) Higgerson of Rio, and Ashley (Jordan) Orwig of Salem, Wisconsin; and five great grandchildren, Peighton, Tate, Beau, Cooper, and Bennett.  In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and an infant son, Samuel, in 1954.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from Bradley University, Ruth taught home economics at Yates City High School and Oneida High School during the 1940’s.  Later she taught elementary school in North Henderson during the 1960’s and 1970’s.  She was also a devoted farm wife and homemaker for her family.  She enjoyed cooking.  Ruth had a deep love for all animals and the rural lifestyle.  She and Dale enjoyed extensive travel with close friends for many years.  They were also very supportive of the University of Illinois, enjoying everything U of I.

Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and Chapter W PEO.

Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel.  Graveside service will follow at 11:30 a.m. in Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Jordan Knight officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to the National Humane Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

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