Mrs. Dianna Lynn Hollowell, 79, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away at 8:50 a.m. Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Dianna was born Jan. 30, 1947, in Galesburg, Illinois, to James L. and Ruth (Pilkington) Kemper. She married the love of her life, Leonard Hollowell, on Sept. 17, 1976, in Galesburg. Together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage filled with love, devotion, and family.
She is survived by her husband, Leonard Hollowell of Galesburg; five daughters, Laurie Eston of Quincy, Illinois; Sharon Kalin of Buckeye, Arizona; Kimmy Hollowell-Williams of Indianapolis, Indiana; Susie Balint of Centralia, Illinois; and Angela Hollowell of Galesburg; two sisters, Janice Kemper of DeKalb, Illinois, and Caroline (Tony) Gates of DeKalb, Illinois; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Charnelle Lewis and Mary Jenkins.
Dianna graduated from Galesburg High School and attended Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg. She dedicated 35 years of service as a certified nurse’s assistant, first at the Galesburg Mental Health Center until its closure, and later at Zeller Mental Health Center in Peoria, Illinois, retiring in 1998. She took great pride in caring for others throughout her career.
Above all, Dianna loved cooking and caring for her family. She had a deep affection for animals, especially the wildlife she lovingly considered her outside pets. Her family affectionately called her “Elly May Clampett” and “Dr. Dolittle,” nicknames that reflected her spirited personality and tender heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
As Dianna requested, cremation will be accorded. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
