Krista Aaron, known lovingly by so many as "Gummy," passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 78. She was born on March 6, 1948, in Freeport, Illinois, and had been living in Grayville, Illinois. Gummy was, above all else, a mom. A grandma. A great grandma. A best friend. She was the kind of person who gave you her honest ear whenever you needed it, whether you were ready to hear the truth or not. She was heartfelt and enthusiastic, with a sarcastic streak that could make you laugh until you cried. Honesty wasn't just something she valued; it was who she was, down to the bone. If you knew Krista, you knew exactly where you stood with her, and most people found themselves standing right in the middle of her enormous heart.
Gummy dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a nurse, a calling that suited her generous spirit perfectly. Outside of work, she poured herself into the people and things she loved most. Her puppies were her constant companions. She lived for spending time with all her babies, grown and littles alike. She loved listening to music and making memories at concerts with Colin, Nette, and her BBR. And if you ever needed to find her, there was a good chance she had a Coca-Cola close at hand. Gummy will be remembered by her daughter, Amy Christine (Garrel) Knight; her son, Aaron Colin (Rita) Ritchey; grandchildren, KC, Jacob, Alex, Bryan, and Jonathon; several great grandchildren; niece, Nanette (Raymond) Maher; and beloved friends who were lucky enough to call her theirs.
Gummy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert E. and Bertha (Krueger) Weir; four brothers; and two sisters; Gummy walked through this life with faith, and her family finds peace knowing she is resting now in the arms of the Lord she trusted. As the song goes, "Someone told me long ago, there's a calm before the storm. I know, it's been comin' for some time. When it's over, so they say, it'll rain a sunny day. I know, shinin' down like water." Gummy, you were the sunshine. You were the calm. And you will shine down on all of us for the rest of our days.
A Celebration of Gummy’s life will be held at a later date.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Krista’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Aaron family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
