Della Riggs-Appel – O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Della Riggs-Appel, 83, of Quincy, passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Della was born September 9, 1940, in Mount Sterling, IL to Cyrus and Rita (Marshall) Horney. Della’s journey through life was marked by love and commitment when she married John Appel on November 10, 2006, at St. Peter Church in Quincy, IL. Their union was a source of joy and companionship.

Della’s legacy continues through her loving family, including her three daughters, Diann Childress, Donna Troutman (Bob), and Debra Knowles (Tad); her adored seven grandchildren, Jeremy Childress (Suzie), Justin Childress (Adrian), Sarah Warner (Nathan), John Knowles, Jessica Knowles, and James Knowles; and her thirteen great-grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable happiness.

Della adored her six stepchildren as if they were her own, Maryann Boehl (Bill), Nancy Mueller (Leo), David Appel (Denise), Kathy Curfman (Ernie), Kevin Appel (Shellie), and Deon Norris (Wendel Bourgeois); along with eighteen grandchildren and thirty-two great grandchildren. She is also survived by a best friend, Kay Hudson, who was like a sister.

Della was preceded in death by her parents; two step-grandchildren; and two step great-grandchildren.

Throughout her career, Della was dedicated to serving others. She worked in transportation and supply at St. Mary’s Hospital and Blessing Hospital, and later as a night intake at Recovery Resources. She was also employed at American Safety in Palmyra until it closed, as well as at the Illinois Veterans Home for a brief period. Her work ethic and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Della’s faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a devoted member of St. Peter Church, where she found solace and community.

Della’s interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She had an enduring love for crossword puzzles and word searches, which kept her mind sharp and entertained. Her love for animals was evident in the numerous pets she cared for throughout her life, from the horses of her youth to the dogs that later became her loyal companions.

An avid sports enthusiast, Della not only loved to play softball but also took great pride in coaching her daughters’ teams. Della’s loyalty to the Chicago Cubs was unwavering, and she enjoyed cheering for her favorite baseball team through both their triumphs and tribulations.

Her admiration for the beach was profound. She took several trips to see different ocean views and beaches and fell in love. Above all, Della’s greatest joy was found in the time she spent with her family, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Friends and Family are invited to Della’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Monday, September 9, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the St. Peter Church in Quincy. Fr. Leo Enlow will officiate. Burial will follow at Rushville City Cemetery in Rushville, IL.

Pallbearers will be Kevin Appel, Jeremy Childress, Justin Childress, James Knowles, John Knowles, and Nathan Warner. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Means and David Appel.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or St. Peter Church.