Jewell Sallis

ROCKFORD - Ruby Jewell Sallis peacefully slept into an eternal slumber Saturday, January 6, 2024. Born October 21, 1936, in Florence, MS, to the late Gabriel and Amanda Franklin. Jewell graduated from New Hymn High School in Pinola, MS, attended Jackson State University briefly then came to Rockford, IL. In 1956 Jewell married Arthur Lee Sallis and three daughters were born to that union. Through the years, Jewell worked various places including Warner Lambert, Farmer’s Basket, Al-mart, Family Dollar and the Goodwill. Jewell was a member of Providence Baptist Church where she served in many capacities but most honored to be a Mother of the Church.

Jewell leaves to cherish her three daughters, Delores, Diane and Deetra and Step-son Alvin Gilmore. Grandsons; Corey (Danielle) and Dedrick Sallis, granddaughters; Gabrielle, Joctavia, Antoinette, Gerrica Sallis and Heather Gatewood; eight great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren. Brothers; Robert, James and Charles Franklin; sister; Peggy Lewis; brothers-in-laws; John “Fruit”, James (Johnice), Danny (Robin) and Michael Sallis; sisters-in-law, Pearlia Anderson and Joyce Sallis; Godson, David Howard and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins and friends.

Jewell was predeceased by her parents, Gabriel and Amanda; husband, Arthur Lee Sallis; Father & Mother-in-law, Rufus and Ethel Sallis; brother, Edwin “Sonny” Franklin, sisters, Clara and Virginia Franklin; brothers-in-law, Joe and Charles Sallis and Eugene Stingley; sisters-in-law, Lille Mims and Costella Sallis and Grandsons, Dietrich and Albert “Tank” Sallis.

Services will be held 11:00 Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Providence Baptist Church, 2209 Clifton Avenue. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.