Belva Waterman, 89, of Milan, IL, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Belva was born in Keystone, West Virginia, as the cherished first child of Arthur and Gladys (Duncan) Blankenship. Belva married Henry L. Robinson in April, 1951. They shared four children, but the marriage ended in 1959. Belva married Frederick "Fred" J. Waterman, on January 17, 1960. After Fred’s passing, she found companionship with Paul Stamper, sharing over 20 years of joy before he passed.

Belva was an active member of the Rock Island Moose Lodge 190, where she received the esteemed Academy of Friendship Award. She enjoyed bowling, was an avid reader with a penchant for murder mysteries, and delighted in watching gameshows along with her beloved Hallmark Murder and Mysteries.

Belva's love for board games and dominoes brought much joy to family and friends, as well as her culinary gifts. She was known as the best cook and dessert baker, always ready with a batch of cookie dough to share, especially with her many grandchildren. Her lively spirit illuminated every room, and her love for dance was infectious in her younger years. Above all, Belva was a loving and caring mother, who welcomed each person into her life with open arms and an open heart.

Belva is survived by her beloved children, Bel (George) Klockenga, Richard (Jeanette) Waterman, Polly (Peggy) Dirck, Milton (Milinda) Waterman, Quintin (Tracy) Waterman, Melissa Waterman, Thomas (Tracy Lee) Waterman; cherished grandchildren, Cary, Christina, Bridget, Brandy, Cory, Faith, Rachel, Bryce, Jacob, Zachary, Jessica, Charlotte, Devon, Seth, Jared, Aaron, Tygan, Katie, Talye, Audrey, Carlton, Frederick, Spencer, Lochlyn, and Thomas. She also lives on in the memories of her numerous great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren. Belva was preceded in death by her parents; her seven siblings; her loving husband Fred; her life partner Paul; and her children, Phyllis, Frederick, Laura, Carlton, and James.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, 201 E. 4th Ave, Milan, IL 61264. A private burial will follow at Rock Island Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family to be distributed to Belva's favorite charities, reflecting her generous spirit.

The family would also like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the caring and compassionate staff of MercyOne Genesis Hospice, who helped care for Belva in her final days.

As we gather to celebrate Belva's extraordinary life, we will remember her warmth, her laughter, and the profound impact she had on all who were fortunate enough to be embraced by her unwavering love. Rest in peace, dear Belva; your legacy of love will continue to inspire us.