SPRINGFIELD – Genevieve Cowden, 100, passed away Friday, May 15, 2026, at St. John's Hospital.

She was born May 6, 1926, to Lawrence and Ida Francisco. She married Thomas D. Cowden on September 19, 1942 at Grace Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death on February 11, 2008. She was also preceded in death by two brothers; four sisters; two half-sisters; a half-brother; a grandson; and a great-granddaughter.

Genevieve was employed at several different jobs, and her last one was with the State of Illinois, Central Management Services, from where she retired. She loved reading, the computer and sewing. She made many sets of kitchen towels that she gave as gifts to relatives and friends. She also did a lot of mending for her family. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her children, Cheryl Craig, Diane (Kevin) Woodson, Thomas A. Cowden and Donald R. Cowden; grandchildren, Elisha Beard, Matthew (Zoey) Woodson, Jennifer Craig, Michelle Cowden, Amy Cowden, Josiah (Cassie) Cowden and Jessica (Taylor) Fields; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 9:45 a.m. until the time of a funeral service at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church.