Cosetta L. Hammerlund, 87, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg, IL, surrounded by the love of her family. Cosetta was born on May 27, 1939, to Juanita Cunningham and Leslie Johnson. She was raised by Freddie Hill and carried the maiden name Johnson before her marriage. On April 8, 1961, she married the love of her life, Larry L. Hammerlund, at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Galesburg. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and lasting memories. Larry preceded her in death. Cosetta is survived by her son, James (Regina) Hammerlund of Harriman, TN; her daughters, Julie (Kevin) Stone of Galesburg and Tina (John) McLeese of Galesburg; her eight grandchildren, Andrew Rench, Tony Rench, Justin (Samantha) McLeese, Chelsea (Cory) Bitner, Travis McLeese, James (Ashley) Clark, Aaron (Krissly) Strickland, and Kyle (Mary Katherine) Stone; 15 cherished great-grandchildren; and one great great grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her sister, Susie (Jerry) Davis ; and a sister-in-law, Lorna Johnson all of Bella Vista, Arkansas. She was also blessed with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Kendall Johnson, Tim Hill, Tom Hill; and her sister, Mary (Roger) Showalter. Cosetta began working as a teenager at the Holly Shop and Knox Laundry before dedicating herself to being a loving stay-at-home mother, raising her children with unwavering love and devotion. Once her children were grown, she returned to the workforce, working at Swedough's Donuts before serving as a lunch aide at King Elementary and serving samples at Hy-Vee. A giving person by nature, Cosetta devoted countless hours to serving her community. She faithfully volunteered at Cottage Hospital Gift Shop, the OSF St. Mary Medical Center Gift Shop, and the Cottage Corner Thrift Shop. Family was the center of Cosetta's world. Nothing brought her greater joy than having everyone gathered together under one roof. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and loved ones whether around the dinner table for one of her delicious home-cooked meals or simply enjoying each other's company. She had a heart full of kindness and a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcomed, loved, and valued. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love, where everyone knew they belonged. The memories she created with her family will be treasured forever. In her free time, Cosetta loved playing cards with her friends, listening to Elvis Presley, and trying her luck at the casino. Her warm smile, gentle heart and love for her family defined her life and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Cosetta was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Galesburg, where her faith was an important part of her life. Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in the countless memories Cosetta leaves behind and the unconditional love she shared throughout her life. She was far more than a mother and grandmother; she was the heart of her family, a constant source of love, wisdom, comfort, and encouragement. Her kindness and unwavering devotion touched everyone fortunate enough to know her, and her legacy will live on through the lives she shaped and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her. Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Scott Carnes will officiate. Burial will be next to her husband Larry at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Walk to end Alzheimer’s through Knox County Nursing Home, 800 N. Market St., Knoxville, IL 61448. Online expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.watsonthomas.com.