JoElla Mary Alderson, 86 of Gillespie, died at her residence on Saturday, March 11, 2023. She was born on June 14, 1936, in Litchfield to Thomas Edward Madden Sr. and Charlotte Thomas Madden.
JoElla attended SS Simon and Jude School, graduated in 1954 from Gillespie High School, and attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. She married the love of her life, James R. Alderson, on December 29, 1956, in Gillespie.
JoElla and Jim had their first date at the sweetheart dance when they were 16. They had three children, James Kent, Kristine Clarice and Sean Robert. JoElla worked, and at one point, co-owned, Lesum’s Store in Gillespie. She worked many years at People’s State Bank and Tetzlaff Farm Supply. She enjoyed collecting antiques, mostly at local auction sales. JoElla also enjoyed dancing and never passed up a chance to join Jim for some smooth moves on the dance floor. JoElla will be lovingly remembered by her family.
She is survived by her husband of 65 years, James Alderson; sons, Kent Alderson (Kim Swan) and Sean Alderson (Tammy); daughter, Kris Lytton (Mike); grandchildren, Ryan Alderson, Nathan Alderson, Alex Lytton, Alan Lytton, and Deana Hampton; many wonderful great-grandchildren; and brother, Eugene Madden.
JoElla was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Thomas Madden, James Madden and Jerry Madden.
Private family services will be held. Memorials are suggested to Illinois Coal Museum 121 S. Macoupin, Gillespie, IL 62033. Kravanya Funeral Home, Gillespie is in charge of the arrangements.