Sheryl Lynn Bacon, 82 of Galesburg, died at 5:32 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.

She was born Tuesday, April 29, 1941, in Monmouth, the daughter of Saylor E.C. and Beryl E. (French) Conard.  She married Jerry L. Cooper in September 1960 in Galesburg.  She later married George W. Bacon on August 8, 1969, in Galesburg.  He preceded her in death on June 30, 2012, after nearly 43 years of marriage.

She is survived by four sons, Jay P. Cooper, Todd W. Cooper, Greg (Julie) Bacon, and Gary Bacon, all of Galesburg; five granddaughters, Samantha Cooper, Christina (Jay) Cassaday, Jessica (Colin) Stamler, Jamie (Jon) Kratowicz, and Courtney (Emil) Rodriguez; 10 great grandchildren; and a sister, Twyla Magnison of Galesburg.  In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Faylene Blaine.

Sheryl graduated from Galesburg High School in 1959.  She went on to earn an associate degree from Carl Sandburg College and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where she was fifth in her class. She was a social worker, working at the Galesburg State Research Hospital, and then at the Ft. Wayne Developmental Center before retirement.  She and George returned to Galesburg in 1998.

Sheryl was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, where she was a member of the Sanctuary Choir.  She was an avid reader and was a member of the Friends of the Library, the Library Book Club, and the Pass Along Book Club.  She was also a member of the Newcomer’s Club, TOPS 408, and various Bridge Clubs. 

Sheryl enjoyed sewing, gardening, and birdwatching.  She loved riding the motorcycle with George.  For many years they owned a ski boat.  Sheryl excelled at waterskiing and continued into her 60s.  She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs.  Family was important to Sheryl.  She helped to raise her grandchildren.  She had a love for animals as well.

Cremation will be accorded.  Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, April 8, 2024, in the First United Methodist Church.  Memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. with Rev. Debra Epley officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church or Knox County Humane Society.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family.  Online condolences and memories may be shared on the funeral home’s website at www.h-p-w.com.