Beverly Ann “Bev” (Renner) DeBord, 89, of Galena, IL, passed away, surrounded by her loving family, on October 15, 2025, after living with cancer for over three years. A celebration of life will be held later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Bev was born in Mt. Carroll, IL, in 1936, the daughter of Kenneth and Lona (Cheeseman) Renner. She was only four years old when her mother died of tuberculosis, so it was remarkable that she knew how to be such a wonderful mother to her own three children. Bev was a graduate of Galena High School and briefly worked at Microswitch in Freeport until her marriage to Robert DeBord in 1956. Their family grew over the years to two daughters and one son. Bev was a member of the Galena United Methodist Church and the Rebekah Lodge, and for years she assisted at Bloodmobile events.

She and Bob were league bowlers in the 1960s and enjoyed their one night a week out with friends. Later, they liked to travel, and Bev would say her favorite places were Hawaii and New York City. She and Bob also spent a couple of winters in Arizona but missed their family too much to stay long. She loved shopping, having family dinners at area supper clubs, and spending time with her friends in person and on social media.

Bev dedicated her life to her family, always holding us together during tough times, celebrating with us in joyful moments, and reminding us of the importance of love and unity. She remembered everyone’s favorite meals, tried to fix every problem to her best ability, and always made time to listen. She didn’t just speak her love; she lived it. She faced every challenge in her life with grace, courage, selflessness, and inspirational determination. Her strength during her illness was awe-inspiring. Even in her final days, she was more concerned about comforting her family than being comforted herself. As we say goodbye, our hearts ache with the depth of our loss, yet we are grateful for the life she lived, the memories she created, and the lessons she taught us.

Bev is survived by her two daughters, Debra DeBord and Jane (Don) Stegall, and her son, Bill (Erica) DeBord, all of Galena; two brothers, Tom (Bobbie) and Terry (Eleanor) Renner; one sister, Bonnie (Bob) Schmid; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her stepmother, Anna; two brothers, Norman and Donnie Renner; one sister, Linda Sowle; two sisters-in-law, Jean and Janet Renner; and a brother-in-law, Jim Sowle.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Engelman and Dr. Koenigs for their care and support, as well as to Jessica of Hospice of Dubuque for her excellent care and guidance.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com