Agnes Rowena Tibbs, age 96, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Thursday morning, October 17, 2024, at Flora Rehabilitation & Health Care Center.

      Rowena was born December 8, 1927, in Wayne County, the daughter of Burlie F. and Clela (Malone) Butcher.  She was united in marriage to Harvey Thomas Tibbs on October 12, 1946, and together they shared 75 wedding anniversaries until his passing on November 10, 2021.

      She and Harvey were longtime members of the First Baptist Church of Flora.  It was here that they celebrated many Sunday services and wedding anniversaries and served the Lord.  After raising her children, Marvin and Teresa, Rowena worked at Mann Shoe Store in Flora for many years.  After she retired, she and Harvey enjoyed traveling in their RV and playing golf.  They visited Florida every winter for many years.  They also spent many years working at the food pantry.

      Rowena was a wonderful cook, and her grandchildren and great grandchildren enjoyed Sunday dinners at her house every time they came to town for a visit.  She never allowed them to leave without her chocolate chip cookies.  Every year at Christmas time, she made holiday platters full of delicious homemade cookies, fudge, and candies.

      Although she missed Harvey dearly in her last few years, she remained independent.  She took care of herself and the home they had shared until just a few months ago.  She never once forgot a card or gift for any of her grandchildren's or great-grandchildren's birthdays or wedding anniversaries.

      She is survived by her son: Marvin (Brenda) Tibbs of Flora; 2 granddaughters: Kristie (Steven) Franzen and Jamie (Mike) Justice; 7 great-grandchildren: Emma DeYong, Regan Franzen, Jake Franzen, Taylor Franzen, Lainey Justice, Braden Justice, and William Justice.

      She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter: Teresa Tibbs Bible; son-in-law: Mark Bible; daughter-in-law: Elaine Tibbs; 2 granddaughters: Lori Tibbs and Jennifer Bible; and a niece and several nephews.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Flora First Baptist Church.  Interment will follow in Floral Garden of Memories Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 12 noon until 1 p.m. on Saturday at the church.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Cancer Crusaders, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com