Mary Jo Cherry

 Mary Jo Cherry (Verkruyse), 84, of Geneseo, IL, passed away on March 5, 2025, at Silvis Center-Silvis, IL. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, March 14, 2025, at St. Malachy’s Catholic Church-Geneseo, IL, with Fr. Daniel Gifford officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory-Geneseo Chapel. Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 4:00 PM prior to start of visitation. She will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery-Geneseo, IL. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the St. Malachy’s Paraclete Fund. Condolences can be left at www.vandemorefuneralhome.com  

Mary Jo was born on July 14, 1940, to Peter and Rachel Verkruyse. She passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Mary Jo was a beacon of love and faith to all her family and loved ones. She was married to her beloved husband, Mike Cherry, for 65 wonderful years, a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

Mary Jo was raised in Atkinson, Illinois, and later settled in Geneseo, Illinois, where she became an integral part of the community. She worked at John Deere for 25 years, a career she took great pride in. As a devout Catholic, her faith guided her through every step of her life, providing strength and comfort to both herself and those around her. Mary Jo was an avid Cubs fan and also enjoyed watching college basketball and cheering for her favorite teams.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Mike, her sister Kathy (Tipple), her sons Mark (Karen) and Mick (Teresa), five cherished grandchildren, and seventeen adored great-grandchildren. Mary Jo’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, brother Bruce, and sisters Gladys (Roesner) and Jean (Plunkett Causemaker).

Mary Jo Cherry will be deeply missed but will remain forever in our hearts. Her family finds solace in knowing she is now at peace, watching over them from above.