Jewel H. Anderson, 86, of Rock Island died June 7, 2014 at UnityPoint Health - Trinity, Rock Island surrounded by family.

At her request, there will be no visitation, only a private graveside service at National Cemetery, Arsenal Island. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, Rock Island is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Quad-City Animal Welfare Center, Milan, Jordan Catholic School,Rock Island, or the library of Longfellow Liberal Arts School in Rock Island.

Jewel was born November 8, 1927, a daughter of Harry F. and Edna Anderson Ellis. She attended Rock Island schools, graduating from Rock Island High School in 1945. She attended Augustana College from 1945-1947. There she met her future husband.

Jewel married Richard L. Anderson May 8, 1948. He died in 2006.

Her high school yearbook stated, "Jewel is indeed a jewel. A ready smile and a helping hand are always yours when Jewel is around." She touched many lives through volunteering in many ways at many places, including her daughters' schools and St. John's Lutheran Church in Rock Island. Jewel received awards and recognition for her dedication.

She became familiar to Augustana students through working at 99 consecutive registrations and helping in the college bookstore the first week of every quarter.

Jewel enjoyed reading, walking, biking, working crossword puzzles, laughing and talking with people, taking care of her house and yard, and giving presents.

She composed verses for Christmas, birthdays, and other special occasions.

Jewel delighted in her granddaughters, great-grandchildren, and pets.

A proud lifelong resident of Rock Island, Jewel spent most of her life in the house her parents built.

Survivors include daughters, Susan (Tim) Granet and Debra Anderson; granddaughters, Angela (Adam) Lynch and Jill (Azariah) King; and great-grandchildren, Isabel and Aidan Lynch and Naomi and Kateri King.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, and brother.

Online condolences and memories of Jewel may be left at wheelanpressly.com.