PEKIN – It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Rebecca “Becky” Lynn Howell, 70, of Pekin. She passed away in her home at 9:59 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024 surrounded by family.

Born on October 20, 1953 in Pekin to Duane and Donna (Callaway) Dolen, she married her husband of 52 years, Terry Edward Howell, on March 20, 1972 in Pekin. He survives.

Also surviving are her two children, Diana (Rich) Schmitt of Pekin and Ryan (Holly) Edward Howell of Groveland; six grandchildren, Nathan Linton of Pekin, Delaney Linton of Pekin, Kale Schmitt of Pekin, Elliotte Howell of Groveland, Emmersyn Howell of Groveland, and Everleigh Howell of Groveland; two sisters, Kathy Richardson of Pekin and Nancy Hewell of Pekin; one uncle, Jim (Charmaine) Dolen of Tremont; three brothers-in-law, Larry (Crys) Howell of Pekin, Gary (Margie) Howell of Manito, and D.J. Howell of Manito and 11 nieces and nephews and their children.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters-in-law, Cathy Howell and Deanie Hill; two nephews, Nick Null and Mike Null and her parents-in-law, Harry and Doris Howell.

She graduated from Pekin Community High School in 1971 and attended Illinois Central College in East Peoria for accounting, where she received a scholarship and was on the President’s List.

Becky worked for the Internal Revenue Service and last worked for Allen & Associates. She was the owner and founder of BLH Trucking Company.

She loved her family and enjoyed gardening and yardwork. Becky did everything to perfection, from cleaning, to homemaking, to cooking. She liked to travel and visit her children and grandchildren. Her big, beautiful smile will be missed the most.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Transitions Hospice, Illinois Cancer Center, and the Oncology Unity at UC Medicine of Chicago.

A gathering celebrating Becky’s life will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at The Northern Oaks Clubhouse, 336 Northern Oaks Drive, Groveland, Illinois 61535. A private graveside service will take place at Prairie Haven Cemetery in Pekin. Cremation rites have been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Midwest Affiliate, 530 Northeast Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria, Illinois 61637.

To leave online condolences, visit www.preston-hanley.com .