Jessie Mae Karpawicz, 91, of Nauvoo, passed away at 9:10 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Montrose Care Center.
She was born on April 22, 1933 in Anderson County, South Carolina the daughter of Abner Turner and Beulah (Knight) Cooley. On January 11, 1954, she married Richard “Dick” John Karpawicz in Chester, England. He preceded her in death August 19, 1997.
Survivors include her daughters: Cheryl (Jeff) McCarty of Nauvoo, Illinois and Janet Chrzan of Elk Grove Villiage, Illinois; son Rick (Kelly) Karpawicz of Morton, Illinois; four grandchildren: Ashley Chrzan, Nicole McCarty, Jessica (Ralph) Vasquez, Abby (Nick) Mitchell; and two great grandchildren: Ira and Sonny Mitchell.
Jessie grew up in Williamston, South Carolina and enlisted in the United States Air Force. She worked as a teachers aide at Nauvoo-Colusa School, and did seasonal work at the wineries in Nauvoo. She enjoyed a simple life. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and helped with church dinners.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 21, 2025 at Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Nauvoo.
A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 21, 2025 at Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home with Father Tony Trosley as celebrant.
Burial will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery.
A memorial has been established in her memory for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church or PAW Animal Shelter.
Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home of Nauvoo is assisting the family with arrangements. On-line condolences to the family may be left at www.sbbfuneralhome.com.
