Marilyn Ruth Kirkland

 

Marilyn Ruth Kirkland, 86, of Carlinville, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.

Marilyn was born on April 30, 1938, in Springfield, the daughter of Ralph and Jessie Mae (Thomas) Thompson.

She graduated from Carlinville High School with the class of 1955.

She married John W. Kirkland on May 4, 1957, at Carlinville United Methodist Church.

Marilyn spent most of her career as a legal secretary, forming valued friendships with coworkers.  Throughout her life, she was a member of Home Extension, and a longtime member of the Carlinville United Methodist Church.

Marilyn enjoyed playing cards in neighborhood card clubs and participating in ladies’ golf league for several years.  She was an avid reader, loved cooking cherry pies, Illinois basketball in the winter and watching Cardinal baseball with John in the spring. One of her greatest joys was attending her grandchildren’s school activities.

She is survived by her son, David and wife Deb of Carlinville; daughter-in-law Graci Kirkland of Allen, TX; grandchildren, Blake, Matt, Gregg, Jessie (Miller), Jaimee (Boston); six great-grandchildren; sister, Karen Wills and husband Don of Carlinville; sister-in-law, Becky Thompson of Carlinville; several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son, Gregg Kirkland and brother Robert Thompson.

Services were held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the Carlinville United Methodist Church, Carlinville.

Burial took place at Bethel Ridge Cemetery near Atwater, with Reverend Bryce Hays officiating.

Memorials may be made to Bethel Ridge Cemetery.

Visit davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in her memory.

Davis Anderson Funeral Homes, Carlinville, is assisting the family with arrangements.