Ethel Brockway, Galesburg Chapel
97, of The Kensington, 311 E. Simmons, died September 21, 2009 with her children at her side. She was born on May 28th, 1912 in Galesburg, IL, a daughter of Charles and Clara Smith. She married Franklin "Punch" Brockway on May 14th, 1933. He preceded her in death on December 24, 1977. Ethel was an "at-home Mom" till her children were grown, then she was employed at O. T. Johnson's in the women's apparel department.

Ethel is survived by: her daughters; Carol (David) Rayhill of Decatur, IL, and Nancy (Bill) Russell of Charleston, S.C.; her son, Roger "Butch" (Donna) Brockway of Livingston, TX; 12grandchildlren; 27 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant son Curtis Lee Brockway; parents; brothers, Ernest and Harold Smith; and her sister Wilma Nelson.

Ethel prided herself on the fact that she kept herself very actively involved in many organizations till the very end. Her activities were centered around the First Lutheran Church of which she was a lifetime member. She was active in various church activities for many years such as; Miriam Circle, Sewing Circle, Choir, Sunshine Committee, Decorating Committee, Mother's Circle, Sunday School teacher, Bible School teacher. For many years Ethel was active in the Church Women United, the Elkettes, and she held many offices at the Galesburg Towers. She enjoyed attending the Oak's potlucks. Ethel had a deep love of music and attended many musical programs especially Choral Dynamics' Programs. Her most cherished activity was the time that she was able to spend with her family and attending their various activities.

The funeral will be at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26, at the Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel. The Rev. Paul Johnson will officiate. Visitation will be held 10:30–12:00 p.m., Saturday September 26, 2009 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery with a lunch to follow at The First Lutheran Church.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to all of the many people who befriended and assisted Ethel especially; her niece, Sherry Hall and family, great-niece Brenda Bird, Rev. Paul Johnson and her various friends at the First Lutheran Church, Hospice Compassus, Dr. Jeff Hershkowitz, the staff & residents of The Kensington, Dr. Madan Gupta, Dr. Thomas Whittle and the Galesburg Clinic.

Memorials may be made to The First Lutheran Church in Galesburg. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.