Mrs. Theresa Maxine Gilkerson

Theresa Maxine Gilkerson (nee Todd) "Maxine" 1941-2021 At rest peacefully surrounded by family Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at AMITA Health Saint Joseph Medical Center of Joliet, IL. Maxine was a 1959 graduate of Minooka High School who volunteered for the faith-based initiative FISH, was a long time member of TOPS Club and a lifelong care giver to her beloved husband, children, grandchildren and many extended family members. She was an avid reader, a wonderful cook, and a keen winner of scratch-off lottery tickets. Deeply dedicated to her loved ones, she was someone you would always want in your corner when things got challenging. You never had to wonder what Maxine thought; she was a strong and vocal woman. She also loved music, especially Willie Nelson. You could find her humming, whistling, and singing his tunes in the morning. She was known for her great sense of humor. Laughing with Maxine was always a good time as she found humor in good and bad situations. Her animation and quick wit made every story come to life. After a show-filled 20-year, retirement in Branson, Missouri, Maxine and her husband Dave moved back to her cherished hometown of Minooka. Proud of her maiden name Todd, she named her youngest son Todd Aaron in honor of her family. Maxine had great pride in her grandchildren. She saw and spoke to them often. There were many loving conversations sharing wisdom and encouragement. In memory of Maxine, remember to laugh-frequently and loudly. Maxine is survived by her husband, David Bruce Gilkerson, and her four devoted children and their spouses; Scott Arthur Gilkerson (Valerie) of Warrenton, VA; Kevin David Gilkerson of Glendale, KY; Diana Lyn Softcheck (Brian) of Camano Island, WA and Todd Aaron Gilkerson (Megan) of Venice, FL. Maxine was also the dearest grandmother of 10; Robert Scott Gilkerson; Carla Marlene Gilkerson; Shannon Marie Camenzind (Eric); Brandon David Gilkerson (Carly); Kyle Ryan Gilkerson; Theodore David Softcheck; Jack Bain Softcheck; Brian Boru Softcheck; Colin David Gilkerson and Vivian Kristine Gilkerson; dearest great grandmother of 11 and great great grandmother of one. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. One of nine children, Maxine has two surviving sisters: Clara Hrechko-Todd "Penny" (Micheal) of Minooka, and Cindy Davis-Todd (Ralph "Terry") of Las Vegas, NV. Sister-in-law Isabel Margaret Voitik (George) of Joliet also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee Roy Todd and Cecil Edith Hancock-Todd, and her siblings, Shirley Sanders, Leslie Todd ("Buster"), Roy Todd "(Babe"), Wesley Todd, Merry Todd and Barbara Thompson-Todd. Numerous nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and cousins also preceded her in death. Cremation Rites have been accorded. A Memorial Visitation for Theresa Maxine Gilkerson will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2022 from 10:30 AM until Prayer Service at 12:30 PM at The Maple Funeral Home 24300 S Ford Road, Channahon. The Family would like to thank everyone at Sunny Hill Nursing Home of Joliet for the loving care they provided Theresa ("Maxine'). Face Masks required at the Funeral Home. With the exception of bottled water, food and drinks are not allowed in the Funeral Home at the current time. For information www.themaplefuneralhome.com

Mrs. Theresa Maxine Gilkerson

February 15, 1941 - December 29, 2021