Phyllis Cabrera

Phyllis Cabrera, age 95, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully in her home on January 9, 2026, at 8:57 a.m., surrounded by the family who loved her more than anything in the world.

Phyllis was born on November 23, 1930, in Silvis, Illinois, to Anna Cobos Terronez and Emiliano Terronez, who, along with other loved ones, welcomed her at the pearly gates.

She was united in marriage to Anthony R. Cabrera on December 10, 1949 and he preceded her in death on May 9, 1985.

Phyllis is survived by her five children: Sharon (Fred) Custer, Becky Godsil, Daniel (Karen) Cabrera, Richard (Margaret) Cabrera, and Barbie (Roger) Thomas. She was the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. She was also joyfully greeted in heaven by one great-grandchild, Andrew Lee Hart, whom she will lovingly hold in heaven.

She is survived by nine siblings and was preceded in death by three siblings.

Phyllis was a wonderful woman to all who knew her and was deeply loved by many. She was a strong Catholic and a devoted churchgoer whose faith guided her throughout her life. She dedicated herself fully to raising her children as a stay-at-home mother and later worked at Eagle’s Grocery after her children were grown.

She found joy in playing bingo, visiting casinos, traveling the world with her family, celebrating her Mexican Heritage (Hero Street) and taking long walks. Phyllis had a vibrant spirit — she loved to laugh, joke, and bring light into every room she entered. She was truly a spark of joy and lived life fully.

Phyllis’s legacy of faith, love, laughter, and family will live on through generations.

Visitation for Phyllis will be 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, with funeral services following at 12:00 p.m. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. A celebration of life will follow at the Thomas Legacy Center at Watson Thomas Funeral Home. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.