Prairie State Wire

Joann Eldridge, 79, affectionately known as Joann Umbarger, peacefully passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, in Joliet, formerly a resident of Lockport. Hailing from Inman, Virginia, and later Big Stone Gap, Virginia, she worked as a dedicated Dietary Aide for Greentree Nursing Home and Chicago Ridge Nursing. Her move to Lockport allowed her to work at various local restaurants in the area. An enthusiast for radio contests, Joann took pride in participating and winning prizes, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

Preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Gary Eldridge (2011), parents Dewey and Mary Umbarger, brothers Charles and Gary Umbarger, and sisters Kathy Umbarger and Virginia Colvard, Joann is survived by her children Rhonda (Ralph) Scherer of Joliet and Gary W. (Pam Lhotka) Eldridge Jr. of Steger, IL. She also leaves behind grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her cousin Marie Joseph.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a preferred charity in Joann's memory are appreciated.

The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 10:00 am in the O'Neil Funeral Home Chapel in Lockport, with interment at Lockport City Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

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