Daphne Geraldine “Geri” Romack, 85, of Patoka was welcomed home, into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
She was born on March 17, 1938, the daughter of Foster Nelson and Esther Edna (Wood) Gideon in Centralia. She married the love of her life and her constant source of entertainment, James “Jim” Romack on October 4, 1958, at the Disciples of Christ Christian Church in Centralia. Geri and Jim shared 53 wonderful years of marriage before he preceded her in death on November 19, 2011.
Survivors who will remember the way Geri could light up a room with her sweet smile include her beloved family, son, James Craig (Janice) Romack of Greenville; her daughter, Lisa Wadkins of Patoka; her grandchildren, James (Hannah) Romack of Greenville, Amanda (Andy) McDaniel of Irvington, and Daniel (Kelsey) Wadkins of Vandalia; 6 great-grandchildren; and her brother, J.C. (JoAnn) Gideon of Belleville.
Along with her husband, Jim Romack, Geri was preceded in death by her parents; her son-in-law, Joe Wadkins; and her granddaughter, Katie Jo Wadkins.
Geri was a gifted, talented, beautiful lady who instinctively used her gifts to serve others. All through her life, she graciously offered hospitality to family and friends by cooking wonderful meals, keeping coffee cups filled, and providing a welcome home. No one could match the deliciousness of her peanut butter pie. Geri was the epitome of a loyal friend. She had an easy, quiet way of making everyone feel seen and respected. Geri was an amazing encourager, whose selfless kindness brought contagious positivity to any situation. She was not afraid of hard work, and willing to help anywhere help was needed. She served her community as treasurer for the City of Patoka. Geri was a loyal employee of the First National Bank in Patoka for 20 years. She enjoyed working outside in her flower garden, crocheting, canning, and traveling with her family. Geri had an endearing, one-of-a-kind, witty sense of humor that brought smiles and belly laughs when she delivered her classic one-liners.
She fiercely loved her family and took her role as provider and protector seriously. Geri was a nurturing, ever-present Mom to Lisa and Craig. She was a fun, extremely proud Grandma to her grandchildren, Amanda, James, and Daniel, and she loved to spoil and sing songs with her great-grandchildren. Geri’s love language was giving, and the thoughtful way she could give someone just what they needed at just the right time was a blessing to many.
Geri was a faithful member of Patoka First Baptist Church where she sang her favorite hymns, in true Baptist fashion, from “her pew” on the right-hand side of the sanctuary. She was active in Sunday school, VBS, and the ladies’ bible study. Geri’s family and friends rejoice in the truth that she is now completely restored and tenderly held in the arms of her Creator, the Lord God Almighty, as they await, with great anticipation, for that glorious day they will be reunited with her again.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the Patoka First Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Patoka City Cemetery. Friends and relatives are welcome to a visitation time from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church on Wednesday. Memorials may be made in Geri’s honor to Patoka First Baptist Church or Patoka City Cemetery and will be accepted for the family at the Day Macz Funeral Home in Patoka. Online condolences and memories of Geri may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.coma and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
