Obituary of Lori Danette Edwards

Lori Danette. Edwards, 73, of Moline, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. Her passing occurred on the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter.

A Funeral Mass for Lori will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2810 5th Ave, Rock Island, IL, followed by a luncheon at Schroeder Hall, located at 425 22^nd Street, Rock Island, IL. All who knew and loved Lori are welcome to attend and celebrate her life.

She was born on February 7, 1953, the daughter of the late Phillip and Evelyn (Sroka) Messmer. A dedicated student and life long professional, Lori graduated from Augustana College and the University of Illinois, earning master’s degrees in both Education and Speech Pathology.

Lori’s career spanned 50 years, during which she taught at the Downers Grove and Rock Island School Districts and served as a speech pathologist for Genesis Health Systems, Davenport Medical Center, and OSF Hospitals in Peoria and Galesburg. Known for her deep compassion, Lori viewed her patients as more than just clients; to her, they were dear friends.

She is survived by her loving husband, Richard Edwards of Moline; sisters, Marlene (Mike) Gengler of Madison, WI and Kara (Chris) Laskowski of Phoenix, AZ; as well as her stepchildren, step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, and many beloved nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Lori was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip and Evelyn (Sroka) Messmer.

Cremation Specialist of Illinois is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.CSofIL.com.