Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.
Bobbie “Jo” Peterson (Childers), 74, of Sunnyland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with her family by her side.
Jo was born on February 16, 1952, in Selmer, Tennessee, to Robert Howard Childers and Johnnie Rea Plunk Childers. She married the love of her life, Steve Peterson, in March of 1971 in Quincy, Illinois. Steve survives.
Jo is survived by her husband, Steve; her daughter, Jodi Peterson; her granddaughter, Lyndi Trulock and her husband, Dylan Trulock; her great-grandsons, Cohen and Kreed, whom she adored; her sister, Lucy; her brother, Kenny and his wife, Barb; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, who are the surviving spouses of her siblings Nellie and Pete; along with many other nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Howard and Johnnie Rea Childers; her sisters, Nellie and Carol; her brothers, Pete and Lonnie Dale; and her niece, Janice Childers.
Jo was one of a kind and truly a pistol. She loved playing card games, watching The Voice, General Hospital, and the Game Show Network. She loved spending time with her family, cooking dinner, baking, and most importantly, playing with her great-grandsons.
Jo leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will forever be cherished. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Memorial service/celebration of life is September 4th at 4:00pm at the first united Methodist church in east peoria
Arranged and delivered by a local florist, with a note in your words. A quiet way to let Bobbie’s family know you are thinking of them.
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Eric and I are so sorry for your loss! Aunt Jo was truly a beautiful soul with a firecracker of a personality to match. I have many fond memories of her throughout my life and always enjoyed catching up with her at family gatherings. I’m sorry that we cannot physically be there at the celebration of life, but we are there in spirit and she lives on in our hearts and minds 🩷
I am so so sorry for your loss. Jo was a riot to be around and a great lady. She is truly missed by anyone who knew her. My deepest condolences to Steve, Jodi and the whole family. Respectfully, Randi Lovett
Jo has always been a wonderful Light & Love in this world. She will always be in my heart. Prayers for love & comfort for Steve, Jodi & family members. May all the Best memories abound and know that she is always with you.
There are no words to ease the pain of losing your spouse, mom, grandma. Jo made our family so much brighter, and I can still hear her laugh filling up our family gatherings. She will definitely be missed.
Granny was truly a bright light in this world. Growing up with Lyndi, my favorite sleep overs took place at her house. She always accepted me as family and never made me feel different. That’s a love I will always remember and cherish. To be loved my granny, was a blessing. You will always be in my heart.
