SPRINGFIELD, IL - Carol A. Gilson, 52, of Springfield, passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at Memorial Medical Center.

Carol was born on August 27, 1963, in Springfield, the daughter of James and Juanita Best.

She worked as a caretaker in her own home. She loved to garden, cook, travel and spending time with her family. Her grandchildren were the highlight of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by two daughters, Christina (Derek) Ayers and Chelsea (Zeke) Weitekamp; one son, Jonathan Gilson; seven siblings, James Best, Joellen (Matthew) Geist, Donald Best, Glenn (companion, Terri) Best, Susan Eckles, Sandra (Reggie Ajdini) Best and Juanita (Nick) Torress; four grandchildren, Carly Mae, Heidi Ann, Colten Dwight and Penelope Rose; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 29, 2016, at Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 1, 2016, at St. Jude Catholic Church in Rochester with Fr. R. Dean Probst officiating.

Burial will follow at Rochester Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family for Jonathan Gilson to help continue the level of care his mother gave him.

Wilson Park Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St., Rochester, IL 62563 is in charge of arrangements.