Emma Jean McCorkle

Emma “Jean” McCorkle, 82, of Moline, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, May 3, 2024, surrounded by family. 

Private family services will be held.

Born Emma Jean Mason on June 20, 1941, in Conway, Arkansas, she was the cherished daughter of James and Emma (Bunting) Mason. Jean’s early life in Arkansas laid a strong foundation of faith and community that would guide her through her years.

Jean married the love of her life, Robert McCorkle, and together they raised three beloved daughters. Their home was filled with love and laughter, and the family shared many adventures traveling across the country. Jean’s heart suffered a profound loss with both the disappearance of her daughter, Regina McCorkle in 1981 and Robert’s untimely death on May 20, 1992, but she continued to embody the strength and resilience that characterized her entire life.

Professionally, Jean dedicated many years to the State Hospital in East Moline before taking a position at International Harvester, from which she retired. Her passion for helping others led her to resume her career in nursing at Conway Regional Health Care Center upon returning to Arkansas, where she continued to make a significant impact on those around her.

A devout member of the Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Rock Island, Jean’s faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She found joy in traveling and shopping, pursuits that brought her into contact with many who would remember her warmth and openness. Jean never met a stranger; she had a unique ability to connect with everyone she met, making lasting impressions with her kindness and her spirited conversation.

Above all, Jean valued family. She was a guiding light in the lives of her daughters, grandchildren, and extended family members, all of whom will miss her deeply.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Rita (John) Sterling of Moline, Rosalind McCorkle of Bettendorf, Iowa, and Regina McCorkle; five grandchildren, Quinette Sterling, Keithen McCorkle, Curtis Campbell, Jr., Jonathan Sterling, and Roneatra McCorkle; 15 great-grandchildren; a great-great-granddaughter; brothers, Robert (Regina) Mason, Bruce Mason, Terry (Wanda) Mason, Anthony Mason, and Raymond (Crystal) Mason; sisters, Robin Parker, Felicia Cook, and Tina Mason; her good friends, Lila Clayton Swain and JoAnn Cunningham; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.  She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Emma Mason; her sister, Linda Mason; her brother, James Mason, Jr.; and good friend, Joyce Johnson.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.