Betty E. Leahy

Betty E. Leahy, 99, of Galesburg, Illinois, formerly of Henderson, Illinois, died peacefully Friday, October 16, 2026 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.

Betty was born November 30, 1926 in Huntsville, Illinois, the daughter of John William and Minnie Alice (Byers) Knowles. Betty moved to Galesburg in 1950 and married Eddie Huffman in 1955. In 1977, Betty and Eddie moved to Henderson. He preceded her in death in 1987. She later married Harold “Ed” Leahy in 1991. He preceded her in death in 2007.

Betty is survived by her stepchildren, Jim (Donna) Leahy of Murphy, North Carolina, Jeff Leahy of Venice, California, and Janet Leahy Gilmer of Fayetteville, Arkansas; three sisters, Kay Davis of Knoxville, Illinois, Kathy Price of Galesburg, and Peggy Leadbetter of Abingdon, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. Along with her husbands and parents, Betty was preceded in death by two brothers, Jerry Knowles and Bob Perabeau.

Betty worked at OMC Gale Products in Galesburg for over 30 years, retiring in 1984. Betty enjoyed being outdoors working in her yard, tending to her flowers, and playing golf. Betty was a lover of all animals and will be long remembered for her selfless ways and helping family and friends whenever needed.

Cremation will be accorded with a graveside service 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 30, 2026 at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg, Illinois. A luncheon will follow at the Thomas Legacy Center, 1849 N. Seminary St., Galesburg, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to Pet Pack Rescue Initiative, 8703 N. University St. Suite F, Peoria, IL 61615. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.