Margaret J. Valentine, 82, of Washington, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, November 15, 2024.

Margaret was born on April 27, 1942, to Ella Mae (Curtis) and Millard A. Tate in Peoria, IL. She married James Valentine Sr. on July 2, 1960, in Peoria, IL. He preceded her in death on February 17, 2014.

Surviving are her children, Jackie (Mike) Hendrick of Antioch, IL and Jim (Jennifer) Valentine of Newnan, GA; her grandchildren, Michael (Brianna) Hendrick of Bakersfield, CA, Matthew (Carolina) Hendrick of Nashville, TN, Stephanie (Kevin Ingalls) Catton of Port Byron, IL, Allen (Kaylea) Catton of Sunnyland, IL, Madison Valentine and Mackenzie Valentine of Washington, IL; and her Great-Grandchildren, Halei Catton, Kale James Hendrick, and Halen Rae Hendrick.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James; her daughter, Annette Catton on July 26, 2016; and her granddaughter, Elizabeth Rae on February 15, 1989.

Margaret attended church regularly until Covid, then watched Dr. Robert Jeffress on Pathway to Victory. When she and her husband Jim visited their lake house, she could often be found fishing or reading. For many years she was an avid gardener and in her younger days she enjoyed bowling, sometimes several times a week. Her favorite thing to do was spend time with all her grandchildren. She had a special relationship with each one of them and they all have memorable times they can recall with their Grandma Valentine.

Margaret was the oldest of 7 siblings. She is preceded in death by her brother Millard, and is survived by 2 brothers, Larry and William "Bill" Tate and 3 sisters, Sue Hiland, Norma Weaver and Chris Weaver.

**Loving thanks to Aunt Sue for being Mom's main care giver these last months since we both live out of town**

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or a Dementia Organization of the Donor's Choice. Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Cremation rites

have been accorded.