Jenni M. Mcgruder

Jenni Marie McGruder, 26, loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, died early Sunday morning April 1, 2018 in Galesburg, due to a senseless act of gun violence. Jenni was born March 28, 1992 in Galesburg, the daughter of Scott W. and Vicki L. (Wolbers) Howe. Jenni married Michael D. McGruder on July 16, 2014 in Clearwater, FL; he survives of Galesburg. Jenni is also survived by her parents Scott and Vicki Howe of Galesburg; her husband’s parents, Duane and Jacqueline McGruder of Galesburg; her two beautiful children, Ryker (1) and Ryleigh (3); her sister, Jamie and Thomas Dunker of Knoxville; her brother, Travis and Amber Howe of Knoxville; and her sisters-in-law, Tamara and Brianna McGruder, both of Galesburg. Jenni is also survived by her grandparents, Darlene Howe of Knoxville, Marie Wolbers of New Port Richey, FL; Michael’s grandparents, Samuella McGruder of Galesburg and David and Joanne Dixon of Galesburg. Jenni was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Sidney Wolbers and Donald Howe; as well as Michael’s grandfather, Robert McGruder. Jenni graduated from Ashford University with a Bachelors in PR-Marketing. Jenni loved kids and her dream job was to be a school teacher. She taught pre-school at Life’s Little Miracles in Port Byron and Community Pre-School in Galesburg before coming to work with her parents at Howe Overhead Doors, where she worked as the office manager.   While it isn’t possible to put in to words what Jenni meant to those that knew her, she will be forever remembered as the most loving, positive, and loyal person. Her smile could light up any room and she had a knack for having a great conversation with those she didn’t even know. To say she never met a stranger would not be a stretch. To Jenni, family was everything and her friends were just as important to her. She was selfless, loving, giving, and possessed the most infectious laugh. She never entered or left a room without giving a hug. Jenni always had a positive outlook and wanted to make sure everyone around her was happy. She was 100% the most reliable person. Her outlook on life has impacted people all over the world. Everyone’s life is a little dimmer without Jenni in it. She will want people to remember her motto, “When in doubt, look up!” Jenni is now the brightest star in the sky. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, April 6, 2018 at Bethel Baptist Church, Rev. Tyson Parks, III, will officiate. Burial will follow immediately in Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg. There will be no formal visitation, however, a celebration of Jenni’s life will be held starting 5 p.m. Friday, April 6, 2018 at Soangetaha Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests all donations be made to the Jenni Howe McGruder Memorial Fund at F & M Bank in Galesburg. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.