Sally J.

McElroy

Sally Jean McElroy, 93, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 12, 2026. Sally was born on February 13, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, to Alice Regina (Frank) and Olin Harold Fletcher. She grew up in Belvidere, Illinois, where she attended Belvidere schools. On March 4, 1951, she married the love of her life, Vernon McElroy.

Sally was a woman of deep faith whose relationship with God and her church was at the center of her life. A devoted member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Belvidere, she generously gave her time through volunteering and participating in the VFW Auxiliary, Joy Club, Ladies Guild, and Legacy Program. She especially cherished the relationships she built with her pastors throughout the years, who held a special place in her heart.

Those who knew Sally will remember her as graceful and grateful, loving and kind, with just the right amount of sass. She was devoted to her family and treasured every opportunity to spend time with the people she loved. Selfless by nature, Sally lived her life in service to others, always finding ways to give, encourage, and make a difference in the lives around her. Her faith, warmth, and love for her family were the foundation of the beautiful life she lived.

Sally is survived by her sons, Stephen (Brenda) McElroy and Michael (Robin) McElroy; grandchildren, Gregory, Rachel McElroy, Rebecca (Terry) Griffiths, Tammy (Danny) Blankenship, Teresa (Matthew) Stevens, Tiffany Murray, and Bernie Murray; numerous great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren, Kinsley, Raina, Liliana, Drew, Everly, Ezraiah, and Odessa, with two more great-great-grandchildren on the way. She is also survived by her dear friends, Bob and Judy Berg and Arlene, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Vernon; and her parents-in-law, Frances and Eleanor McElroy.

The family invites those who knew and loved Sally to celebrate her life on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Belvidere. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A committal service will follow at Highland Garden of Memories.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church or OSF Hospice.