Faye Puckett

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of a remarkable woman—our beloved, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother (Gigi).

Faye Eloise (Bowden) Puckett, 99, peacefully passed away Monday, January 19, 2026, at home with family by her side. She was the heart of our family, a source of strength, kindness and unwavering love. As a mother she gave selflessly, guiding with wisdom, patience and compassion. She brought joy, laughter and warmth into every moment, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Her life was defined by her generosity, her resilience and her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved. She had a special way of turning ordinary days into something meaningful, whether through her words, her care or simply her presence.

She leaves behind a legacy of love that lives on through her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us every day. WWMD (What Would Mom Do?)

We will miss her deeply, remember her always and carry her love with us forever.

Rest in Peace, Mom!

Faye was born November 20, 1926 in Athens, GA, the only child of Professor Roy A. Bowden and Berth Mae (Threkeld) Bowden. Faye married Hoyle B Puckett (of Jesup, GA) on June 22, 1945 in Athens, GA.

They had a very happy and loving marriage of 68 years. They raised their 3 children (Carol, Hoyle Jr and Kristina) in a very happy, safe and loving home. After WWII, Faye supported her husband’s return to college and earning his BS & MS degrees in Agriculture Engineering from the University of Georgia and Michigan State University. They then began Hoyle’s career with the USDA where he was assigned to Oxford, NC, Champaign, IL and numerous overseas sabbaticals. Faye accompanied Hoyle on many of his overseas work trips in the UK, Europe and Russia. She loved traveling and experiencing many different cultures and people.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and son. She is survived by her daughter, Carol of Champaign and her children: James (Kathryn) and son, Hayden Keeley of Ann Arbor, MI, Jason (Dawn) and children, Carly and Carter Keeley of Tolono. Daughter, Kristina (John -deceased) Berbaum and their children: Kathleen (Jeremy) Miller of Douglasville, GA; and Douglas J. Berbaum of Monticello. Daughter-in-law, Janet Puckett (Hoyle Jr.-deceased) and their children: Matthew (Carrie) Puckett and their children, Loretta and Holly June of Warwick, RI, Amanda (Jeremy) Able and their children, Brooke and Bree of Algonquin; Mark (Jessica Eddy) and their daughter, Avery Puckett of St. Joseph.

At Faye’s request, she was cremated and interred with her husband at Mt. Hope Mausoleum in Urbana. Friends may join the family at a memorial service on Saturday, April 18 at 1:00 at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St, Champaign. The Rev. Paul Arnold of First United Methodist Church will officiate. The family requests that visitors wear something pink and blingy: Faye’s favorite color and she loved her bling! Also please feel free to say a few words about your memories of Faye.

After the service (2:30) there will be a Celebration of Life for Faye at the I-Hotel Conference Center with light refreshments and drinks. Please join us for reflection and good memories.

If you wish to make a contribution in her name, please make a donation to organizations she supported: Running Strong for American Indian Youth, A Project of Christian Relief Services, PO Box 670, Raton, NM 87740 or any veteran organization (she supported them all).

We must also mention and thank the excellent care that Mom received during the last year from Carle Hospice and Synergy Home Care. They were wonderful with her care and cheerful banter. Thank you so much for your compassion.

Faye is at peace now—she is reunited with her past loved ones.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Faye Puckett, please visit our floral store.