Elaine T. Howerton, 56, of Sycamore, died Friday, December 27, 2024 at her home.

She was born July 18, 1968, in Oak Park, Illinois the daughter of Donald and Mary Ann (Ford) Welker.

In 1987, Elaine survived a car accident and coma after being broadsided by a truck but suffered a traumatic brain injury and lingering neurological problems. This actually motivated her into working with those with special needs and intellectual disabilities, working as a teacher in Camelot schools and later as a resident assistant at Avancer Homes. Elaine would say how those with disabilities are no different from anyone else and should be treated with compassion.
Despite every adversity Elaine faced, including the loss of her soul mate, James Killeen, in 2011 and needing to raise three children on her own, Elaine was stalwart in her support of others. She would of course have a good cry, but at the end of the day pick herself up and move forward saying, “and life goes on.”

She was preceded in death by her soulmate, James Kileen.

She is survived by her children Joseph Howerton, Alanna (Andres Garcia) Howerton, and Lawrence Killeen; her parents; her siblings Jeanne, Russell, Jim, Chris, Wendy, and Kim; also many nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be held Sunday January 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Anderson Funeral Home in DeKalb.

Visitation will be held Sunday January 12, 2025 from 11:00 AM until the time of service in the funeral home.

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