Molly Horio
Molly Ann Horio, a beacon of love and wisdom, passed away on November 12, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on September 18, 1962, in Beardstown, IL, Molly’s life was a tapestry woven with dedication, intelligence, and genuine warmth. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love of her family in Bloomington, IL.
Molly is survived by her devoted husband, Calvin M. Horio of Normal, IL, with whom she shared a beautiful life and a love that knew no bounds since their marriage on February 25, 1995, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She is also lovingly remembered by her son, Jacob K. Horio of Carbondale, IL; her mother, Jeanne (Jim) Newbanks of Springfield; her brother, Brad (Michelle) Knippenberg of McKinney, TX; and her cherished nieces, Megan Hurtado, Annie Knippenberg, and Katie Knippenberg. Her father, Harry C. Knippenberg, Jr., preceded her in death, and no doubt welcomed her with open arms.
Molly attended Springfield High School, where she first discovered her love for knowledge and service. She went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Library Sciences from the University of IL – Champaign/Urbana, a testament to her commitment to education and the empowerment of others. Molly’s career as a medical librarian was marked by her tireless dedication to the Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal and later, OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She played a pivotal role in supporting the continuing education of her colleagues in the medical field, ensuring they remained at the forefront of their practice.
Beyond her professional achievements, Molly embraced life with passion and joy. She had a deep appreciation for music, playing the saxophone and guitar, cheering on her beloved Cubs and Mets, as well as deep affection for her dogs with her soft tender heart. Her adventurous spirit led her to the snowy landscapes of Northern IL and Wisconsin, where she delighted in skiing, reveling in the thrill of each descent down the slopes.
Those who knew Molly will remember her as a loving wife, a nurturing mother, an intelligent librarian, and an analytical thinker, whose presence brought comfort and insight to many. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
Visitation: 1:00 – 2:30 PM, Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Central Baptist Church.
Funeral Service: 2:30 PM, Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Central Baptist Church with Rev. Reg Mills officiating. Cremation will be arranged following services with private family burial at Nu’uanu Memorial Park in Honolulu, HI.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: IL Humane ; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ; or to the Wounded Warrior Project.
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