Rexann A. McKinley, 69 of Watseka passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday November 27, 2024, at her home. She was born on November 2, 1955, in Watseka. The oldest daughter of Victor Balanoff and Beverly (Johnson) Balanoff. Survivors include one daughter - Amanda (Don) Beckler of Phoenix, AZ; one son - Christopher (Meghen) McKinley of Bowling Green, KY; three grandchildren - Zachary Beckler, Brianna Beckler, and Conall McKinley; mother - Beverly Castonguay of Watseka; one sister - Cheryl Sando of Watseka; several nieces and nephews including Jacob and Justin Sando. She was preceded in death by her father in 1992.
Rexann’s early years were in Stockland, IL, continuing on to graduate from Milford Township High School in 1973. She was a pillar of the community owning and operating The Sweat Sock sporting goods store in Watseka for nearly two decades. Later in life Rexann earned her associate’s degree from Kankakee Community College and her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Governor’s State University. She was a professor of Humanities and Social Sciences at Kankakee Community College for 17 years where she also served as the Watseka Fast Path coordinator since the inception of the program in 2017. Her greatest passion was teaching and mentoring young adults. She had a thirst for knowledge and a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed her path. Rexann was an avid reader and enjoyed her trips to Hawaii. Her pride and joy was spending time with her three grandchildren. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, students, coworkers, and many more whose lives were touched by her.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday December 3, 2024, at 5:00pm at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Darla Holden officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 3:00-5:00 pm at the funeral home. Private burial will be at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team.
Please share a memory of Rexann at www.baierfuneralhome.com
