Katherine Matilda Poole

Katherine Matilda Poole, 88, of Machesney Park, passed away in her home on March 26, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on May 20, 1937, in Roscoe, IL, the daughter of Delbert and Elizabeth (Meurat) Love.

Katherine was married to Houston Swinney and then married George Poole. She was married to George for over 25 years, until he passed away. She worked at and retired from Anderson Packing. She had also been a home health care giver at one point.

Katherine was a dedicated member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Rockford for many years. She was an avid reader of her Bible. She also enjoyed dancing, any kind of dancing. She went to the concerts at Sinnissippi Park and also spent time doing word searches. Katherine was known to be a very helpful neighbor. She would take out the trash and return the bins. She even helped people shovel their walks and driveways way past the age that she should have been. She also loved her flower gardens and made sure her yard was clear of dandelions. If you asked Katherine what her favorite thing to do, she would have answered spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by her sons Lloyd (Belinda) Swinney and Jeffrey (Penny) Swinney; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister Irene Ainsworth; brother Russell Love; brothers-in-law Gary (Roberta) Swinney and Don Daniels; and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents; husband George Poole; ex-husband Houston Swinney; son Jerry (Bonnie) Swinney; daughter Mary Pfab; sisters Virginia Trimble, Marie Hood, and Linda Daniels; and sisters-in-law Peggy Swinney, Elaine and Linda Love.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mercy Hospice, the CNAs and RNs who showed care and compassion and to Jenny Triddle, her caregiver for 10 years.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com