Lavon Helen Gilman

Rockford, IL, Lavon H. Gilman, age 83, passed away on Thursday September 23, 2026 in Javon-Bea Hospital, Rockford, IL. Lavon was born on May 2, 1943 in Rock Falls, IL, the daughter of Lawrence & Helen (Schulte) Martenson. She graduated from Rock Falls High School class of 1961.

Lavon married James Gilman on August 30, 1964 in Rock Falls, IL and he preceded her on July 1, 2018. Lavon has lived in the Rockford area since 1964.

Lavon worked K-Mart and she worked for Felker’s in Byron, IL. She loved to sew and Barbies. She would go antiquing and Flea-Marketing with her husband before he passed.

Lavon is survived by her daughter: Laurie (Mike Lenz) Gilman, Rockford, IL; 1 sister: Cindy (Bob) Sondgeroth, Rock Falls, IL; and a niece and nephew.

Lavon is preceded in death by her parents; husband: James; brother: Paul Martenson.

Graveside services will be held on Friday October 2, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. in Oakwood Cemetery, Dixon, IL. A visitation will be held Friday October 2, 2026 in Oakwood Cemetery, Dixon, IL from 12:30 P.M. until 1:00 P.M.

Memorials to be established at a later date.