Bonnie S. Lowe

Bonnie Lowe, 78, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly Monday, January 12, 2026. Born February 10, 1947 in Ottumwa, Iowa, the daughter of Wayne and Linda (Gillispie) Hulen, Bonnie carried with her a joyful spirit and a deep devotion to family throughout her life.

She graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1965. Bonnie married David Lowe on October 15, 1973 and together they shared 25 years of marriage. They later divorced but remained good friends. Later in life, she shared a cherished companionship with her special friend, Ted Johnson, for the past 20 years.

Bonnie was the proud mother of three daughters: Lisa (CJ) Malcolm of Knoxville, Illinois, Lila (John) Whetstine, and Billie Jo Lowe, both of Galesburg; loving grandmother of eight grandchildren: Brittany, Heather, Trystan, Cheyenne, Austin, Megan, Deontré, and Lyeesa. Also left to cherish her memory are three beloved great‑grandchildren: Raylynn, Aiden, and Jacklynn; David Lowe of Galesburg, her companion and special friend, Ted Johnson of Galesburg; one brother, Thomas Gilmore of Galesburg; and one sister, Martha Setser of Indiana. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Larry Hulen and Kenny Hulen; and one sister, Betty Callas. Her family was the center of her world and she poured her heart into every moment she spent with them.

Back in the day, she participated in pageants in Wapello County and had even won beauty queen at the age of 15. Bonnie had a passion for gardening and worked in the Garden Center at Walmart for 28 years, before retiring in 2015. Music was one of her greatest joys. She loved to sing, dance, and enjoy all kinds of music. Bonnie especially loved going to karaoke, where her smiles and energy lit up the room. She also liked cooking dinners for her family and collecting little gnomes from Dollar Tree.

Bonnie will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion, and the happiness she brought to those around her. She had such a kind heart and would always make everyone feel welcome. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored and the memories she created with them.

Cremation will be accorded. A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the Knox County Humane Society.