Phyllis Cabrera, 95, of Galesburg died peacefully Thursday, Jan. 9, 2026, at 8:57 a.m. at her home, surrounded by her family.
She was born Nov. 23, 1930, in Silvis, the daughter of Anna Cobos Terronez and Emiliano Terronez. She married Anthony R. Cabrera on Dec. 10. He preceded her in death May 9, 1985.
Phyllis is survived by her five children: Sharon (Fred) Custer, Becky Godsil, Daniel (Karen) Cabrera, Richard (Margaret) Cabrera, and Barbie (Roger) Thomas; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; nine siblings; and one great-grandchild, Andrew Lee Hart, who preceded her in death.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; three siblings; and her daughter, Diana Charles.
Phyllis was a devoted Catholic and churchgoer whose faith guided her life. She was a stay-at-home mother dedicated to raising her children and later worked at Eagle’s Grocery after they were grown.
She found joy in playing bingo, visiting casinos, traveling the world with her family, celebrating her Mexican heritage (Hero Street), and taking long walks. Phyllis had a vibrant spirit — she loved to laugh, joke, and bring light into every room. She was truly a spark of joy and lived life fully.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, with funeral services following at noon. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. A celebration of life will follow at the Thomas Legacy Center at Watson Thomas Funeral Home.
Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
