Sylvester N. Mcworthy Jr.

Sylvester N. McWorthy Jr., a devoted family man and respected railroad engineer, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the age of 92. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, at the Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Burial will be in Springdale Cemetery in Clinton, IA.

Born on October 3, 1932, Sylvester was the son of Sylvester Sr. and Helen (Franklin) McWorthy. He was raised in Savanna, IL, and was a proud graduate of Savanna High School, Class of 1950. Shortly thereafter, he began a lifelong career with the railroad, first as a fireman and retiring as an engineer after 41 years.

Sylvester’s life was marked by enduring love and companionship. He married Betty Lambert, with whom he shared many joyful years until her passing in 1986. Later, he found love again and married Nadene Mohlencamp; they shared a fulfilling chapter of life together until her passing in 2012. Sylvester found joy in the outdoors and camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts as a member of the Mississippi Fly Away Gun Club and the local Moose Lodge. He loved fishing and Duck hunting on the Mississippi with his sons and other friends. His sons fondly remember family day trips down the river to see grandparents, and other excursions in Sylvester’s homemade flat bottoms.

Sylvester leaves behind a cherished legacy in his family. He is survived by his two sons, Larry (Jeannie) McWorthy and Sylvester IV (Cynthia) McWorthy, both of Thomson, IL; four grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty; his second wife, Nadene; his granddaughter, Desiree McWorthy; his sister, Shirley Bush; and his parents.