Marilyn Elizabeth King, 77, of Odin passed away Saturday, October 14, 2023, at SSM St. Clare Hospital in Fenton, Missouri.
She was born on April 20, 1946, the oldest daughter of Charles Elmer and Betty Joan (Tolen) Simpson in Edger County, Paris, Illinois. She married the joy of her life, Charles King on June 17, 1976, in Elisabeth City, North Carolina and he preceded her in death on October 9, 1992.
Survivors who will remember Marilyn’s love of learning include her beloved family, her children, Charles M. (Rachel) King of Ohio, Rebecca King of Odin, Phillip R. King of Odin, Matthew (Rachel Ann) King of Nebraska, and Malinda G. (Derrik) Harris of Breese; 11 grandchildren; her bonus son, John (Stephanie) King and his two sons; siblings, Becky (Cary) Lilton, Linda Lankster, and Michael (Sherry) Simpson; and a host of nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Along with her husband, Charles King, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Betty Simpson; her sister, Susan Diane Pinnell; and her infant daughter, Celeste King.
Marilyn valued education, earning her master’s degree in education, and sharing her love of learning with many grateful students. She served with pride in the United States Navy, working in communications until her honorable discharge from the Navy to begin her family. Marilyn was a supportive spouse to her husband, while he also served in the military, during the earning of his chiropractic degree, throughout owning his own practice, and she never left his side while he battled cancer. She was an active, faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Centralia. Marilyn was a wonderful mother, providing a firm foundation for her children and setting them up for success in life. She loved her family with all her heart, always finding time to keep family ties close. Marilyn had a creative side and enjoyed quiet moments, crocheting, and knitting special gifts of Afghan blankets and hand towels for family and friends. She found the study of Genealogy fascinating, starting in high school and documenting her family’s ancestry for future generations. Marilyn served her community of Odin as an election judge for 20-plus years. She kept up on current events by turning on Fox News each morning. Marilyn was resilient, fierce, kind, loving, intelligent and respected. Marilyn will forever be remembered by all whose lives she touched.
A celebration of life service will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2023, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2241 E Calumet St, Centralia, IL 62801 with Bishop David Mooth officiating. Memorials may be made in Marilyn’s honor to Irvin Macz Funeral Home to assist the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories of Marilyn may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Marilyn King with arrangements.
