Malicia D. Deneau

Malicia D. Deneau, 65, of Kankakee, formerly of Agoura, California, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital surrounded by family after a long illness. She was born March 30, 1960, in Kankakee, the daughter of William T. and Shelba (Jones) Howard. She graduated from Westview High School in 1978. She moved to California after high school until she returned to Illinois 3 years ago to retire. Malicia worked in banking most of her life. Malicia enjoyed watching Hallmark movies, going to the beach, traveling, going to craft shows, and working in the yard. She also loved her cat, Max. Most of all she loved going out to eat with her family and friends. Malicia is survived by her children, Matthew (Kaitlin Toomayan) Deneau of California and Nicole (Gary Gonzales) Deneau of California; sisters, Shelia (Allen) Mailloux of St. Anne and Sherry Howard of Watseka. She is preceded in death by her father, William T. Howard; mother and stepfather, Shelba D. and Roger Smedley; and sister, Sandra Smedley. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Jensen Funeral Home from 10am until the funeral service at 1pm with Deacon Pat Skelly officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Kankakee Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family.