Lori J. Gassaway

Lori Jean Gassaway, 61, of Rockford, passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022.

Lori was born in Peoria, IL, on May 19, 1961, daughter of Don and Norma (Schaffner) McWilliams. She graduated from Illinois Valley Central High School, Class of 1979, Chillicothe, IL. Lori then earned her associate degree from Illinois Central College, East Peoria, IL. She married Darren J. Gassaway on March 17, 1998, in Rockford. Lori most recently worked as a Benefits Specialist with the Rockford Park District for many dedicated years, and formerly held a similar position with the Rockford Public Schools system.

She enjoyed reading, traveling, and attending barbeque competitions with her husband, Darren. She loved her diet coke, and she was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs. Lori had a special love for her family pets, Cubbie, Ernie, and Rexy. Most of all, Lori cherished her time spent with family, making memories, and was always taking care of them.

Surviving relatives include her husband, Darren Gassaway; children, Jason (Danelle) Razo of Minneapolis and Michelle Razo of Rockford; stepdaughter, Megan Gassaway; mother, Norma McWilliams; sisters, Debbie (Don) McCollum and Susan (Todd) Lawson; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; parents-in-law, James and Brigid Gassaway; and her beloved family pets, Cubbie, Ernie, and Rexy. Lori is predeceased by her father, Don McWilliams.

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 5, 2023, from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. located at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lori’s name to the Rock River Valley Pantry, 421 S Rockton Ave. Rockford, IL 61102. www.rrvp.org

Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com