Crystal Elaine Pherigo, 65, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on September 16th 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Crystal was born on May 25th, 1957 to Robert and Loretta Barker in Ottumwa, Iowa. Crystal married her high school sweetheart on August 4th, 1973. Together they lovingly raised 3 daughters. Their loving journey of 49 years was filled with companionship and unconditional love.
Crystal lived a life to the fullest. She loved her family and was always there any time someone needed her. Crystal cherished her grandchildren beyond measure. She was always there to share and support them in their milestones and accomplishments. Crystal was their biggest cheerleader and #1 fan. She took pride in being a caregiver to her family and friends. Crystal was very dedicated to her family and friends and loved each of them with all her heart. If she loved you she showed it in many ways. She will be remembered by her family and friends as one of the sassiest and strongest women that loved us all with her huge heart.
Crystal had many hobbies. She loved to craft, go fishing, work with horses, garden, play the slot machines, go camping and enjoyed sitting by the fire. Crystal’s all time favorite place was the Smokey Mountains. She enjoyed her many trips there with her beloved family. Christmas was very special to her. She cherished having all of her children and grandchildren at home on Christmas morning. Crystal loved her Christmas tree so much that she would leave it up and lit all year round.
Crystal graduated from Davis County High School. She held various jobs and positions including Carhart, but was most proud of being a Conductor for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad for 14 years.
Crystal leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved husband, Gary; daughters, Billie Jo (Marty) Sterr, Brandi (Richie) Linville and Stacie (Tim) Thompson; grandchildren, Brianna Pherigo, Shelby Linville, Autumn James, Sarah Linville, Connor Sterr, Cassie James, Cameron Thompson and Addisyn Honeyman; brother, Richard (Diane) Barker; sister, Tammy (David) Loerzel and many nieces and nephews.
Crystal is preceded in death by her parents Robert and Loretta Barker and her sister Pam Clayton.
Visitation will be open after 1 p.m. Tuesday September 20th at Reece Funeral Home with family present to greet friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Wednesday, September 21st at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Tucker O’Leary officiating. For those unable to attended, the service may be viewed on the Reece Funeral Home Facebook page. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Beacon of Hope Hospice of Illinois.
