Lilly Malcome

Lilly Malcome, 23, of Neoga, Illinois passed away February 9, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Champaign, Illinois. She was born May 16, 2002 in Mattoon, Illinois, the daughter of Larry and Leah (Wannenmacher) Malcome.

Lilly was the beautiful, kind, talented baby girl of the Malcome family; and her ambition and drive for her passions was boundless. From an early age, Lily showed a great interest in music, teaching herself to sight read music on an out-of-tune piano. It was also at this time that she began to nurture a deep love for being active and exploring—taking regular walks in both rural and urban areas.

After graduating high school, Lilly began to delve into her lifelong interests: psychology, philosophy, and music. Even after being diagnosed with uterine cancer at the age of 21, Lilly was determined to learn and take in all that she could; even earning her realtor’s license while undergoing treatments.

Recently, at the age of 23, Lilly was admitted to Carle Foundation Hospital, where she passed after a 2-year long battle with cancer. She was surrounded by family—Her mother, Leah, was at her side constantly, support unwavering, from beginning to end. Her father, Larry, was also there at every opportunity to hold her hand. Among her many loved ones was her fiancé, Charlie, who showed genuine love and loyalty—a truly rare, treasured quality that the family couldn’t be more grateful for.

The family would like all to know that her last moments were positive and that the last words she spoke, and that were spoken to her, were all about love and encouragement to rest. She passed peacefully in her sleep at 2:45am February 9, 2026. The family would also like to thank everyone for all the support given to them and Lilly through this very difficult period. They ask for understanding and patience moving forward.

Most importantly, they would like all to remember that Lilly is able to rest now and that there will be no more suffering. They ask that you remember her bravery and courage—how hard she fought and how much she meant to everyone.

She is survived by her parents; siblings, Austin (Deanne) Malcome, Michelle Malcome, Heather Royer, Logan Malcome, and Megan Crumb; fiancé, Charles Pomeroy; grandmother, Carol Elston, many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Friday, February 13, 2026, with a 4:00 PM life celebration service at Swengel- O’Dell Funeral Home in Neoga.  

The Swengel-O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga, Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.swengel-odell.com.

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