Rachel D. Vega, 89, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at her home with her children by her side at 1:25 p.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024.
Rachel was born April 4, 1935 in Galesburg, the daughter of Basilio and Herminia (Martinez) Gimenez. Rachel graduated from Galesburg High School in 1954 and married Angelo Andrew Vega, Sr. on June 25, 1960, in Galesburg. He preceded her in death on January 1, 2003. Rachel is survived by one son, Andy Vega of Galesburg; two daughters, Alice Vega and Monica Vega both of Galesburg; one granddaughter, Adelita Vega and her father, Trevor Rogers of Galesburg; and one sister, Virginia Murguia of Galesburg. Including her parents and husband, Rachel was preceded in death by six brothers and four sisters.
Rachel worked for many years in retail at Belscott, Arlens, and Woolworths. She also worked at Galesburg Research Hospital until its closure. Rachel last worked at Knox College until her retirement. A faithful Catholic, Rachel was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and a member of the LULAC Club (League of United Latin American Citizens). Rachel enjoyed being around her home and tending to her flower gardens. Her greatest blessing was spending time with her granddaughter Adelita. She was a wonderful mother to her family and friends and was always there when she was needed the most, offering support, wisdom, and love.
The rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. Monday, July 1, 2024, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with visitation following from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Cremation will be accorded following the funeral mass. Burial of cremated remains will be next to her husband at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.