Julie Kerkove

Julie Ann Kerkove, of Savanna, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, at Rock River Hospice and Home in Sterling.

Julie dedicated over 30 years of her life to serving others as an in-home caregiver, a role in which she gave her all with compassion and selflessness. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her profession and into her home, where she lovingly tended to her plants and cherished time spent boating and fishing. However, above all, Julie's greatest joy came from her family.

She is deeply missed by her three children: Matthew (Brandi) Kerkove of Savanna, Tricia Grimes of Clinton, and Jay Anderson Jr. of Savanna; her ten beloved grandchildren: Eric Teske, Atlantis Kerkove, Zachary Teske, Kyaria Kerkove, Chance Grimes, Logan Grimes, Jayden Kleckner, Jayce Anderson, Jaykob Anderson, and Jay Anderson; and her four siblings: Nelly Kerkove, Anna Springer, Jake Kerkove, and Chad Kerkove. Julie is preceded in death by her mother, Nita Leavens, her brother, Frank Kerkove, her ex husband, Randy Leadly, and her cousin, Cheryl Syndram.

A celebration of Julie’s Life will be held at 5pm Friday, October 24, at Manny’s Pizza in Savanna.