On April 14, 2023, Natalia Mae Herndon (Johnson), known to her countless friends as Tolly, passed away peacefully in her sleep. She was 93 years old.
Tolly was born to Erhard and Dores Johnson in Woodhull, Illinois on September 26, 1929. She was a lifelong Woodhull resident and member of the United Church of Woodhull where she frequently volunteered and served. She worked at DeSaulnier’s in Moline for 2 years and then at the local library. She was also a member of the United Presbyterian Women’s Club, Ladies Auxiliary Legion, and the Swedish Club in Andover.
Always staying busy, Tolly enjoyed gardening, oil painting, cooking, baking, scrapbooking, exercising with her aerobics group, and making lap quilts and rag rugs at the church. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and dedicated her life to caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Tolly married her high school sweetheart, Bruce Herndon, on August 21, 1949. For nearly 75 years, they never left each other’s side.
Tolly is survived by her husband and three children: Scott Herndon (Terry), Debra Florio (Neil), and Jody Herr (Jeff). She is also survived by five grandchildren, Anthony and Travis Florio, Seth, Preston, and Alexis Herr, five great-grandchildren, her loving nephew Eric Johnson and 3 great-nephews, Samuel, Alex, and Aaron.
She was predeceased by her son Mark David, and her brother Russell.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 20 at Peterson-Wallin-Knox Funeral Home in Woodhull from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Her family invites the community to join them in a celebration of Life Ceremony at the United Church of Woodhull on Friday, April 21 at 3:00 p.m. with a luncheon to follow.
Memorials can be made to the Woodhull Cemetery for monument repairs.