Gloria Jean Ovington, 74, of Jerome, died peacefully on Oct. 17, 2026, at her home. She leaves behind a rich legacy of love, family, and community.
Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Rochester Christian Church, located at 325 S. Walnut St., in Rochester. In keeping with Mrs. Ovington’s wishes, cremation care will be accorded following the ceremonies.
Mrs. Ovington was born Dec. 6, 1952, in Hillsboro, to Warren “Bud” and Marguerite Lavene (Durbin) Oller. She married William “Bill” Ovington on June 19, 1971, at St. Mary’s Church in Taylorville.
She graduated from Morrisonville High School and received her degree from Lincoln Land Community College. She made her career as a social worker helping many women and children throughout the Central Illinois area through her work at the Rape and Crisis Center and Sojourn Women’s Shelter, both in Springfield.
Alongside her beloved husband, they provided foster care to area children for 27 years. They created a welcoming home for the children filled with laughter and love. Her greatest joy was her beloved family.
Mrs. Ovington is survived by Jeremy Ovington of Minnesota, Jennafer (William J.) Wilson of Jerome, Bethany Ovington of Jerome, Charlotte Gravitts of Jerome, Antonio Ashcraft of Jerome and Demarko Ovington of Springfield; grandchildren, Jordan (Shelby) Chitwood and Jerrica (Gunner) Remlinger both of Martinsville, Royalty Marie Ovington of Springfield and Liam and Milo Ashcraft of Springfield; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, nephews, great-great nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Patrick and Dennis Oller; and two children, Latasha Moore and Henry W.
Those wishing to express their condolences to the family via a memorial contribution, may make it to the family.
Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville is honored to be serving the family. Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories or offer condolences to the family.
