Kathryn Virginia Wells

Kathryn Virginia Wells, age 88, of Saunemin, Illinois, passed away at 6am on August 9, 2026, at her home surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on June 5, 1938, in Palestine, Illinois, the daughter of the late Perry and Margaret (Richardson) Harris.

Kathryn was a proud graduate of Palestine High School with the class of 1957. After high school Kathryn married her sweetheart Robert Wells on July 14, 1957. They made their home in Saunemin, where they would raise their family.

At the age of 59, Kathryn returned to school and earned her LPN degree from Kankakee Community College, a reflection of her determination, perseverance, and lifelong desire to serve others. Her decision to pursue nursing later in life was a testament to her character and her belief that it is never too late to follow a calling. Kathryn worked for a period of time with the Livingston County Health Department as a Vision Technician, then after obtaining her LPN license, she continued her career with the American Red Cross Bloodmobile, where she devoted herself to helping others until her retirement.

Kathryn was a woman of deep faith and steady devotion. In her retirement, she enjoyed sewing and crafting. She also made sure to take time each day to read her Bible, drawing strength and comfort from her faith. Her days were enriched by the time she spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who brought her immense happiness and pride. Kathryn left her family with numerous fond memories and she will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.

Kathryn is survived by her loving children, Kelly (Mike) Herr of Plainfield, Julie (Scott) Mennenga of Morris, and Robby Wells of Saunemin. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jessica (Gerry) Casey, Zachary (Katie) Herr, Kaycee (Monica) Peña, Ryan (Sarah) Herr, Nathan (Robin Jensen) Stevenson, Rachael (Nathan) Buchanan, step grandchildren Gideon Yeager, Sophie Mennenga, and Gracie Mennenga, as well as her seven great-grandchildren . She is also survived by her sisters, Juanita Lingafelter and Sharon Eaton. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Geneva Cafin, her husband Robert, and her grandson, Billy Stevenson, whose memories remained dear to her heart.

The Wells family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Carle Foundation Hospital and Vitas Hospice for their expertise and tender, loving care.

A funeral service will  be held  at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 22, 2026 at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Burial will follow at the  Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorials in Kathryn's memory may be made to Pontiac Bible Church, Pontiac IL, or the Livingston County Humane Society, with envelopes available at the funeral home.