Dawn Conn-Byrum

DAWN O’LYNN CONN-BYRUM passed away Friday morning, February 7, 2025 at Accolade Nursing Home of Peoria after a valiant battle with Alzheimer’s Dementia and heart disease.  Her sister was by her side. She was dearly loved by Accolade’s outstanding staff of medical professionals who gently helped her transition peacefully.

The Reverend Judy Kennedy of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Pekin, IL, presided at her private funeral & burial on February 10th  at Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont, IL.

Dawn is survived by her older sister, Terra L. Conn of Peoria.  Dawn and her sister grew up in Napa, CA, where she spent most of her life.  In her prime, she was a stunning San Francisco Powers Runway Model.  She was a true California girl, although she began her life in Pekin, IL in 1951.  Her family moved West when she was 8 years of age.

Her husband, Lewis K. Byrum preceded her in death.  She adored his daughter, Melissa Androlowicz of Sacramento, CA as well as her young sons Nolan and Nate.  They shared many happy days together enjoying the Marine World Africa Amusement Park in Vallejo, CA watching dolphins, killer whales, tigers and feeding the giraffes.

Dawn loved her niece, Deanna Franklin of Fort Collins, CO and her daughters, Jenna and Alyssa.  She looked forward to occasional visits during summer months after semester break.  She was always so proud of all their achievements.

Dawn’s grace and beauty was a ray of sunshine and joy all her life, always ready with a smile and love.  Her passing is bitterly grieved by her sister, and all who had the privilege to know her.  Her light was brilliant.

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