Helen B. Zefo

Helen Beatrice Zefo, 93, of Galesburg, died at 8:40 a.m. Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at her home surrounded by family.

She was born to Howard Leland and Juanita Ruth (Bauman) Garrison on March 9, 1931 in Galesburg. Helen was reared and educated in Galesburg, graduating from high school in 1949. She married John Zefo at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galesburg on September 2, 1950. He preceded her in death on August 5, 1988.

Left to cherish her memory are three sons: Joseph Zefo of Galesburg, Nicholas Zefo of Nederland, Colorado, and Patrick Zefo of Galesburg; three daughters: Mary Zefo of Galesburg, Christy (Dean) Huffman of Hiram, Ohio, and Amy (J.J.) Coe of Galesburg; 10 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. She was preceded in death by her father; mother, Juanita Peterson; stepfather, Louise Peterson; one son, John Zefo; and a brother, Robert Garrison.

She worked at Admiral’s Corporation for about 10 years but mostly remained a homemaker and caretaker as her kids were growing up. She was quite active with her kids as they were getting older. Helen loved to read and paint. Her favorite kind of books were mystery novels. She passed the love of art and reading to her kids and grandkids. Helen was a great artist and enjoyed going to the Civic Art Center. She loved animals, especially dogs. In her free time, she liked watching her favorite tv shows which were Blue Bloods or M*A*S*H. She was a devout catholic and member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church.

Cremation will be accorded. Memorial services are planned for summer of 2025. Burial of cremated remains will also be next summer at St. Joseph Cemetery in Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Knox County Humane Society.