Tanya Lynn Gaffey, age 50, of Rock Falls, IL, died on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at her home.
Tanya was born July 12, 1975, in Sterling, IL, the daughter of Jack and Melody (Manon) Bender. She was employed as a CNA for many years. Tanya enjoyed painting, drawing, thrift shopping, and butterflies. Most of all, she loved her granddaughter and her children, who were her world. She was funny, strong willed, and loved by so many.
She is survived by her daughter, Hannah (Corey Kennedy) Gaffey of Sterling; son, Jakob Gaffey of Rock Falls; father, Jack Bender of Sterling; sisters, Toni (Jason Willet) Bender of Rock Falls, Tasha (Clay Stringer) O’Brien of Sterling, Melinda Bender of Morrison, IL, and Jessica (Jake) Morris of Sterling; brothers, Calvin Tompkins of Clinton, IA, and Charlie Williamson of Rock Falls; granddaughter, Emma Kennedy; eight nieces; seven nephews.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Melody Bender.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.