Edythe Josephine Batts, 77, of DeKalb, Illinois, and formerly of Clinton, Iowa, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Center. 

Born on January 30, 1948, in Independence, Louisiana, to Eddie Mack and Hattie Lee (Dew) Tillman, Edythe proudly carried her Southern roots throughout her life. 

Over the years, Edythe held many jobs, always demonstrating a strong work ethic and setting an example for her children. She retired from the egging company in Clinton, Iowa, in 2014. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, sewing, attending church, playing bingo and cards, and cheering on her children during their younger years. She was a firecracker of a woman, known for her sharp wit and sense of humor. Her comebacks could make anyone laugh—even if you were the target.

She is survived by her children: Marlon Tillman (Katie) of DeKalb, Illinois; Renira Batts of Chicago, Illinois; and Waylon Batts of Davenport, Iowa. She also leaves behind her grandson, Darrien Tillman (Kiya) of Rock Falls, Illinois; and her siblings: Robert Tillman of San Antonio, Texas; David Tillman of Tickfaw, Louisiana; Johnny Tillman (Dolores) of Springfield, Louisiana; Wayne Tillman (Anne) of Ponchatoula, Louisiana; and Deborah Tillman (Johnny) of Ponchatoula, Louisiana. She also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Terry and Ronald; and her nephew, Kevin Tillman.

Edythe’s final journey will take her home to Louisiana, to be laid to rest near family and among those who loved her most. 

Her brother Pastor John Tillman will do a memorial service on August 9th at 11am at Hope in Salvation Church of God in Christ at 1050 S.E. Railroad Ave., Ponchatoula, Louisiana. A burial service will follow at Ponchatoula Cemetery Tangipahoa Parish.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Batts Family in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.