Cynthia J. English

Cynthia J. English 82, of DeKalb passed away Friday, September 20, 2024, at Bethany Health Care and Rehabilitation in DeKalb. She was born November 9, 1941, in DeKalb and was the daughter of Jaye and Patricia (Coffee) Smith.

Cynthia graduated from DeKalb High School in 1959 and married her sweetheart Phillip Johnson, on August 9, 1963, in their hometown of DeKalb. Phillip was the love of her life until his passing on December 17, 1986. Years later, Cynthia found love again and married Eugene English in June 1992, sharing many happy years together before he passed away on January 3, 2018.

Cynthia was a co-owner of Welcome Lanes Bowling Alley alongside Phillip, where they spent 10 wonderful years building a warm and welcoming community. Afterward, she continued working at the Jewel/Osco deli department until her well-deserved retirement.

A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in DeKalb, Cynthia's life was filled with joy and laughter. She was passionate about bowling and had a deep love for travel, especially enjoying family cruises. Some of her happiest memories were made during her trips to Las Vegas, where she and Gene spent time gambling and creating cherished moments together.

Survivors include; four children; Cheryl (Dave) Reiners of DeKalb, Charlotte (Eric) Estes of DeKalb, Cathleen (Timothy) Lamont of DeKalb, and Phillip Johnson of DeKalb. Grandchildren; Courtney Cochrane, Catlyn (Jared) Cochrane, Eric Estes II, Steven (Anna) Estes, Cassondra (Logan) Parson, Andrew Burright, Kevin Lamont, Jessica Johnson and Michael Johnson. One great granddaughter; Caroline. She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and sister; Vernetta Knutzen.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 7:00pm at Finch Funeral Home with Pastor Jonathan Crail officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024, from 5:00pm-7:00pm at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date at Malta Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the family to be established at a later date. Cremation rites were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.