Violet R. Gaught

Violet R. Gaught, 88, of Peoria, formerly of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at Kewanee Care Home. Violet was born July 23, 1935, in Huntsville, Alabama, the daughter of Solon and Lucille (Johnson) Cantrell. She married Leonard Brooks Gaught on July 2, 1955; he preceded her in death in 1985.

Violet is survived by her children, Linda (Gary) Stevens, Prairieville, LA, Donald (Debbie) Gaught, West Peoria, Wayne (Vicki) Gaught Chattanooga, TN, and Peggy (Michael) Rutherford, Peoria; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Solon Cantrell, Ernest Cantrell, and Robert Cantrell; a sister, Norma Scott; a son, Phillip Gaught; and a grandson, Doug Harrold.

Violet was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama where she graduated from High School. Violet and Leonard ran away to elope in Iuka, Mississippi in 1955, and later returned to Huntsville, Alabama to raise their five kids. Violet and the family moved to Peoria where she worked at OSF Saint Francis, later transferring to Methodist, as a housekeeper and laundry attendant. Once she retired, she was a homemaker who loved cooking, cleaning, and spending time with her family.

Private graveside services will be on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Evergreen Memorial Garden. Pastor Stephen McGough will officiate. Please leave an online condolence for Violet’s family at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

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