Mrs. Helen M. McCormick, 79, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly at 11:46 p.m. Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.
She was born April 13, 1946, in Galesburg, the daughter of Thure and Esther (Olson) Swanson. She married James E. McCormick, Jr. on July 10, 1970, in Galesburg.
Surviving is her husband of 55 years, Jim McCormick of Galesburg, five daughters, Lynn (and Dave) Crosiar of Orion, Illinois, Shirley (and Todd) Kistler of Altona, Illinois, Donna (and Bill) Holden of Oneida, Illinois, Kris (and Ryan) Dillbeck of Oneida, and Marie Roe of Pontiac, Illinois, a son, Donnie Smallwood of Cameron, Illinois, two brothers, Edward Swanson of Colorado and Benard Swanson of Galesburg, twelve grandchildren and three grandchildren and one on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters, Mary McCombs and Ruth Basham.
Helen worked in central processing at Galesburg Cottage Hospital for 34 years. Mostly she was a homemaker taking care of her children and husband. She enjoyed gardening and baking, especially baking pies. She loved spending time with her family, especially the Thanksgiving holiday.
As she requested, cremation will be accorded. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Liquor Box in Oneida from 1-4 p.m. Memorials may be made to the family. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
