In Loving Memory of Courtney M. Drysale
With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we remember Courtney M. Drysale, a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short at just 30 years old. Her sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the communities of Oak Lawn, Bourbonnais, Momence, and beyond, leaving family, friends, patrons, and loved ones grappling with an unimaginable loss.
On February 2, 2026, shortly before noon, Kankakee County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a deceased individual at a local bar in rural Momence, near the Illinois-Indiana state line along Illinois Route 114. Upon arrival, they found Courtney, the owner of the bar, and she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Based on evidence gathered during the preliminary investigation, authorities have classified the case as a homicide, and the investigation remains ongoing.
But beyond the headlines and official statements, Courtney was so much more than a name in a report. She was a daughter, a friend, a business owner, and a woman with dreams, determination, and a strong connection to her community. Owning and running her own bar was a testament to her ambition, her work ethic, and her entrepreneurial spirit. She built a place where people gathered, shared stories, laughed, and found comfort—a reflection of her desire to bring people together.
Those who knew Courtney remember her for her personality, her strength, and the mark she left on everyone she encountered. She had a presence that could light up a room, a resilience that carried her through challenges, and a generosity that made others feel welcome. Whether behind the bar, talking with friends, or planning for the future, she carried herself with a sense of purpose and individuality that defined who she was.
Her passing is not only a personal tragedy for her loved ones but also a painful loss for the community she served and supported. In a place where she created memories for others, her life ended far too soon. The shock and grief surrounding her death serve as a reminder of how fragile life can be and how violence and tragedy can strike without warning.
As investigators continue to seek answers and justice, her family and friends are left to mourn, to remember, and to hold onto the moments they shared with her. The call for information from the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office and Crime Stoppers reflects a community’s hope for truth, accountability, and peace for those who loved Courtney.
Today, we honor Courtney M. Drysale not just for the tragedy of her passing, but for the life she lived—the laughter she shared, the dreams she pursued, and the connections she built. Her story, her impact, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
May Courtney rest in eternal peace.
May her loved ones find strength in remembrance and love.
And may justice and truth bring light to this dark moment.
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