Gina Rae Ilbery, 58, of Keenes, passed away Thursday, December 3, 2020, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, in Centralia.

She was born May 4, 1962, in Mt. Vernon, the daughter of Thomas George and L. Darlene (Spangler) Wilson. On August 15, 1987, she married Michael D. Ilbery, and he survives in Keenes.
She graduated from Kell Grade School, Salem High School, Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville, and Eastern Illinois University, and earned her Master’s Degree, in Education. After a fulfilling career in education, she retired as Superintendent from Field Grade School in 2019. Gina was a faithful, lifelong member of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Iuka. She was involved in many aspects, including worship leader, Vacation Bible School, and was devoted to serve the Lord in any way she could. She has left a great legacy in her family, who will forever be appreciative and touched by her selfless devotion and love.

In addition to her husband, Michael Ilbery, of Keenes, she is survived by three children, Shala Carson and husband Michael of Glen Carbon, Illinois, Micah Ilbery and wife Kim of Edwardsville, Illinois, and Noah Ilbery and wife Kourtney of Edwardsville, Illinois; three grandchildren, Michaela Carson, Camryn Baker, and Thatcher Ilbery; mother, Darlene Wilson of Iuka; brother, Guy Wilson and wife Sara of Kell; sister, Jana Jones and husband Randy of Iuka; and foster brother Ralph Girgenti and wife Joyce of Portage, Indiana.

She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas G. Wilson.

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, a private family funeral service for Mrs. Ilbery will be held. In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, and will be accepted by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830. Online condolences, memories, or photographs can be sent to memoriesofginailbery@gmail.com.