Patty J. Zepeda

Patty Joan Zepeda, 75 of Galesburg passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at her home. She was born on January 23, 1949 in Galesburg, the daughter of Willie B. Jones and Reba L. Hickerson.

Patty was raised in Abingdon and attended schools in Abingdon as well as Cunningham School in Urbana, IL.

She worked as a waitress at many restaurants which include the Friendly Cafe in Abingdon and Galesburg, Abbe Lanes, the Huddle, and Soangetaha Country Club where she worked for over 20 years. Patty took pride in caring for others as a housekeeper and caregiver for people in the Galesburg and Abingdon areas.

Patty had a “green thumb” and enjoyed tending to her plants and flowers. She had a love for music especially “Saturdays in the 70’s" and she loved dancing as though she didn’t have a care in the world.

Most of all, Patty loved spending time with her family which included baking chocolate chip cookies with her grandchildren.

She will be remembered for the love she gave to her family, her unique gift giving on holidays and birthdays, and cheering (clapping loudly) for her loved ones.

Patty was of Catholic faith.

Left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Melissa Wooldridge of Galesburg; 2 grandchildren, Jayla Elizabeth Flowers and Joseph William Hudson both of Galesburg; a brother, Billie D. Jones (Mary Lopez) of Galesburg; 3 sisters, Linda Zefo of Galesburg, Lisa Robinson and Rhonda Cook both of Abingdon; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jalyssa Anne Flowers; her mother, Reba L. Cook; her nephew, Jon R. Zefo; and her beloved pets Spirit and Bubba.

Patty was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She will be deeply missed.

Per Patty’s wishes, no services will be held. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kensington Ballroom, 311 E. Simmons St., Galesburg, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.