Katherine S. Driskell, 79, of LaHarpe, Ill., passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Blandinsville Christian Church, where she was a longtime member. Visitation will take place at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Glade City Cemetery in Blandinsville.
Katherine was born May 17, 1946, in Marinette, Wis., the daughter of Raymon and Betty (Wright) Henry. She married Alan Driskell, on July 3, 1965, in Carthage, Ill.. Together, they shared nearly six decades of marriage, a life filled with love, family, and faith.
In 1970, Katherine earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Arts and Science Speech Pathology and Audiology from Western Illinois University in Macomb. She dedicated her professional life to supporting students, working for many years in the LaHarpe School District and other area schools, where she touched the lives of countless children and colleagues.
A creative spirit, Katherine found joy in crafting, scrapbooking, and traveling. Her sewing talents were unmatched—from stitching tiny clothes for her daughters’ Barbie dolls to tailoring a professional business suit for her daughter Wendi’s college class. Her hands were rarely still, and her heart was always full.
Katherine is survived by her devoted husband, Alan; her three loving children: Wendi Harrell (Eric Appelquist), Michele Driskell (fiancée Mike Stachowicz), and Phil Driskell (Helen Driskell); her beloved grandchildren: Chris Harrell (Alicia Harrell), Catie Harrell (fiancée Brian Lemenager), Nolan Driskell, and Calaen Driskell; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Camden and Carter Harrell.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Patricia Naylor; and her niece, Erin Philyaw.
Memorials in Katherine’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House (MercyOne Genesis Health Services Foundation).
Katherine will be remembered for her gentle strength, her unwavering love for her family, and the warmth she brought to every room. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and compassion.
Banks & Beals Funeral Home of LaHarpe is assisting the family.