Louise Ellen Callaway, 88, of Hutsonville, IL, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024, at the St. Vincent Heart Center in Carmel, IN. Her heart was always with her family, and it beats on in the countless lives she touched with her love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Born in Robinson on January 5, 1936, Louise was the only daughter of Roger & Hazel (McCormick) Watson. Growing up with five brothers, she quickly developed a sassy spirit and a love for life. Saturday nights found her at the local roller-skating rink, where she was a natural on wheels and a friend to everyone she met. As a teenager, she began working as a waitress at the Tick Tock Café in Robinson, and it was here that she would meet the love of her life, Dale Callaway. She cheekily wrote her number on his receipt—despite the fact that he was there on a date! Dale kept that receipt all his life, a cherished reminder of the beginning of their love story. The couple married on April 1, 1953, when Louise was just 17, and shortly thereafter, she joined him in Germany as a young bride, following him through his military assignments and building a family along the way.
After settling back home, Louise’s tireless energy and unmatched dedication shone through. Whether frying up chickens for a Sunday picnic after long shifts at Phillippe’s Grocery or remembering every customer’s name and favorite order at Dunlap’s Gas Station, she approached every task with joy and excellence. Her legendary Rouladen, with carefully designated toothpicks, was a family favorite at Thanksgiving and Christmas. She lent her culinary talents to her church family as well. As a dedicated member of the West Union Christian Church, Louise faithfully served in the kitchen and as a beloved “snack lady” at Bible school.
Family was always at the center of Louise’s world. Her children knew her as a tireless and loving mother, and her grandchildren affectionately called her “Gweezy” or “Grandma Weezy.” Her joy was found in their joy, and her greatest satisfaction came from attending thousands of ball games, altering dresses, babysitting, and being their biggest cheerleader. With a heart ever-attuned to the needs of others, Louise lovingly cared for her mother after her stroke and created a warm home for her father and in-laws, offering them her steadfast support and boundless compassion. Her selflessness became a hallmark of her life, and it shaped the lives of those around her for the better.
She was the glue of her family, a matriarch who never left dirty dishes in the sink—unless, of course, there was golf to be played! An avid golfer, Louise was a proud member of Oak Glen Golf Course and the “Oak Glenettes” since the 1980s, embracing the camaraderie and fun of the game. For years, Louise & Dale were known for captivating dance floors with mesmerizing motion—whether it was a lively jitterbug, an elegant waltz, or the timeless steps of a Charleston. Their dancing wasn’t just a skill but a reflection of their connection, a testament to the beauty of a life lived in harmony with someone you love.
Her loss leaves a massive void, but her family takes comfort in knowing she is in heaven, reunited with Dale, dancing on streets of gold. Her life was a masterpiece of goodness, devotion, and joy—a legacy to celebrate, cherish, and emulate. In her honor, may we embrace life with the same grace she did: loving wholeheartedly, serving selflessly, and dancing boldly through every precious moment.
She is survived by her children & their spouses, Tonja Sheets, Bret & Sarah Callaway, and Bruce & Tina Callaway; by her daughter-in-law, Kim Callaway; by her grandchildren & their spouses, Cory & Crystal Sheets, Derek & Mindi Sheets, Rikki Callaway, Kelsey & Dusty Ikemire, Ashley & Ben Huffington, Jordan Callaway, Brittney Callaway, Wade & Lindsey Callaway, Blake & Emma Callaway, Lauren & Ryan Holubek, and Brooke Callaway; and by her great-grandchildren, Isabel Sheets, Layne Haddix, Will Callaway, Avery Sheets, Avah Callaway, Ilayna Sheets, Brynn Griffin, Noah Callaway, Brynn Ikemire, Ali Sheets, Braelyn Ikemire, Abigail Callaway, Easton Huffington, Isabella Callaway, August Huffington, Graydon Holubek, Eloise Callaway, and Adilynn Louise Holubek; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dale, her son Rick, and her brothers, Gene, Jack, Jim, Bill, and Roger “Toot” Watson.
A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 16th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17th, at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share memories and stories, reflecting on Louise’s remarkable life. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream.
Louise will be laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the “Hutsonville Booster Club” or the “West Union Christian Church.” Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. For more information, or to share a memory or condolence online, please visit www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com.
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