Vicki Lynn Isom, 74, of Russellville, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at North Alabama Medical Center, with her beloved husband of 48 years, Mack Isom, by her side. Born on May 9, 1951, in Vandalia, Illinois, and raised in Greenville, Illinois, Vicki’s life was one of quiet strength, enduring love, and heartfelt generosity.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and caretaker to many, Vicki lived her life rooted in compassion and faithfulness. She met Mack in Rockford, Illinois, in 1973, and together they built a life of deep commitment and resilience, even in the face of social challenges. Their love endured decades, strengthened by trust, laughter, and unwavering support—especially during her later years as her health declined.
Vicki found joy in life’s simplest pleasures—a steaming cup of coffee, the music of wind chimes on a breezy day, or the sight of cardinals fluttering around her bird feeders. She adored springtime, when flowers bloomed under her careful tending, and autumn, when burning bushes turned brilliant red—symbols of both new beginnings and the beauty of growth.
Though she held several jobs throughout her life—driving buses for children with disabilities, supporting young mothers, and assisting with job training programs—her most cherished work was done within the walls of her home. There, she poured her heart into raising not just her own children, but many others, offering a loving, safe place for parents to entrust their little ones. Children gravitated toward her warmth and patience, and she treated each child in her care as one of her own.
Vicki also had a passion for the unique and whimsical. She loved browsing flea markets and collecting porcelain dolls, figurines, Beanie Babies, and other special treasures that reflected her spirit and eye for beauty. These small joys brought light to her days and filled her home with charm.
She will be remembered most for her giving heart, her comforting words, and the strength with which she loved her family. Even in her final moments, her thoughts were with those she was leaving behind. Vicki’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and the enduring power of love shared across generations.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Doris Marohl and Eldon Nowlin; her adoptive mother, Audrey Lee; her brothers, Bruce Nowlin, David Nowlin, and Eugene Neal Jr.; her sister, Donna Thomas; and her cherished mother-in-law, Clara Mae Isom.
Vicki is survived by her husband, Mack Isom of Russellville, AL; her daughters, Clarerita (Mario) Higgins of Milwaukee, WI, Melissa (Andre) Isom DeHart of Houston, TX, and April (Scott) Sanders of Rockford, IL; and her son, Michael Isom of Sylvania, OH. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Nasya Simmons, Alanah Simmons, Trinity Higgins, Ariel Higgins, Naomi Isom, Keith Feltz, and John Simmons; as well as two great-grandchildren.
Vicki is further survived by her sisters, Rose Neal and Tina (Calvin Tate) Lee, both of Beloit, WI; her brother, Henry Neal of Rockford, IL; and numerous treasured brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives she touched with her boundless kindness and care.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Lisa and Greg Robinson. Lisa is a family member and dedicated member of the medical team at North Alabama Medical Center, and her presence during Vicki’s final days brought both comfort and peace. The family will always be grateful for the exceptional care she ensured was provided during such a tender time.
Service Information
A memorial service celebrating Vicki’s life will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Spry Memorial Chapel, 907 South Jackson Avenue, Russellville, AL 35653. Visitation begins at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m.
Because Vicki had a large circle of family and friends in Rockford, Illinois, her ashes will be brought there later this summer for an additional ceremony to honor her life. The date for that service will be announced at a later time.
Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To give private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.
