ROCHELLE – We do not mourn as those who have no hope…We rejoice because of that hope.

On Saturday, July 31, LaWanna Eldridge experienced the fulfillment of that hope. LaWanna was born to CM and DeLois Elliott (Bethel) on Jan. 9, 1957 in South Bend, Indiana. She married Rick Eldridge on April 6, 1974 at the Rochelle Church of God and they have been married for 47 years.  

They raised two children and have seven grandchildren that were her whole world. However, it didn’t take long for anyone that was around her to realize that you didn’t have to be blood to be loved by her.

LaWanna loved fiercely and impacted so many people throughout her 20 years of service at the Rockford Rescue Mission. She was known for her warm hugs, bright smile, infectious laugh and always an encouraging word.  

Though she only had two biological children, she was known as “Mom” to countless others, all of whom could depend on her for care, concern and spiritual guidance…all of the exemplary traits of a godly mother.

LaWanna is predeceased by her mother, Delois. Survivors include her husband Rick Eldridge, father CM (Annie) Elliott, brothers John (Janine) Elliott, Mark Elliott, John (Linda) Lloyd and Buster (Debbie) Lloyd, children Stacy (Ryan) Blackburn and Chris (Spring) Eldridge, grandchildren Jacob, Abigayle, Kylee, Aubrianna, Joshua, Austin and Colton, nieces and nephews Jeremiah (Cami) Elliott, Johnna Elliott, Shawn Elliott, Amber Lynn (Amadeus) Fuentes and several great nieces and nephews.  

The family would like to thank the staff of the Rochelle Community Hospital, OSF Saint Anthony and the representatives and nurses of the Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network for their care and concern for LaWanna and the family over the past few days. 

Cremation care has been provided. A Celebration of Life Service will be Thursday, Aug. 5 at the Rochelle Church of God. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. with the service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rochelle Church of God or online at www.cornerstonebeloit.com to help the family with memorial expenses. Please visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.