Rowena June Montgomery-Eastman

Rowena June Montgomery, age 70, of Marion, Illinois (formerly of Goreville) passed peacefully into her Heavenly home on Sunday, September 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. 

She was born on June 30, 1956, in Marion, Illinois to John E. Montgomery and Margaret Louise Turnage. From the very beginning, Rowena was a cowgirl at heart: full of spunk, courage, and a deep love for God’s creation. Blessed with her dad’s striking Montgomery blue eyes, infectious laugh, she had an outgoing personality and she never met a stranger. Above all, Rowena cherished her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, niece, cousin, and sister, and the time she spent with those she loved was among her greatest joys. She had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to make memories with them.Rowena was also a woman of many talents. She was an exceptional cook, a gifted singer, and a talented artist. She often shared her creativity and love with those around her. She especially enjoyed making Christmas magical for her family, spending time with her grandchildren, and going fishing. These were the simple moments that brought her immense happiness.

She is survived by her mother, four children: Johnathan Aaron (Crystal) Smith of Harrisburg, Sarah (Don) Bullette of Carterville, Rindi (Josh) Brainard of Weatherfield, TX, and Amanda (Ben) Goins of Herrin. Twelve grandchildren: Hannah, Luke, Shae, Haven, Aiden, Alli, Emma, Shanley, Tealy, Elijah, Lexi, and Leyton, and two great grandson: Jace Ray and Holden. She is also survived by her brother, James Clark (JC) Montgomery and sister, Inez Lee Ann Stokes, and her many nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.

Rowena was proceeded in death by her dad, John E. Montgomery, brother, Homas Duco, and infant brother, John Benson, and beloved sister-in-law, Tracy. 

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September17, 2026 from 5:00 - 8:00 PM at Blue Funeral Home located at 812 S. Broadway in Goreville, Illinois. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM at McKinney Chapel located at 532 McKinney Chapel Road in Marion.  In lieu of flowers the family requests with gratitude that memorial donations be directed to Binkley-Ross to assist with funeral costs. 

In keeping with her spirit of generosity, Rowena gave the gift of life as an organ donor. Finally, we leave you with these words written by Rowena on June 7, 2017, in remembrance of her dad, "I finally made it .... standing here before the .... the glory I can see and my Savior's here with me!!! So don't cry for me today...cause I've finally got my way, no more left to do...so I'm waiting here for you!"