Obituary of Marilyn Elaine Bray

Marilyn Elaine Bray, 87 Carlinville, IL passed away Saturday morning, October 14, 2023, at Pleasant Dale Place in rural Girard, IL. She was born August 9, 1936, in Springfield, IL, a daughter to Edward and O.Bernice (Conlee) Fricke of South Otter township. She was a Girard High School alumna, class of 1954. She married Robert (Bob) Bray on January 2, 1958, at Girard First Baptist Church, where she was a life-long member. Robert passed away in April, 1994 in Jacksonville, IL. There will be a graveside service at Girard Cemetery at a future date. The family suggests memorials to be given in Marilyn's memory to Pleasant Dale Place or Elara Caring Hospice, Springfield, IL (or a hospice of one's choosing). Marilyn is survived by children, Lynda Marlene (Ralph) Moshage, Darren L. (Corina) Bray, Donna M. Seelbach. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren; Scott (Elizabeth Richardson) Moshage and their children, Adam and Natalie; Nick (Erika) Moshage; Sara (Sid Sethupathi) Moshage; Chris (Vanessa Aguirre) Moshage; Joshua (Kayla) Bray and their daughters, Taya and Hannah; Stephanie (Peter) Schellenberger and their boys, Logan, Wil, Leland and Dean; Caleb (Elise) Bray and their daughter Reagan; Ethan and Sherrylee Bray; Bryan Seelbach; Zachary (Claudia) Seelbach and their children Mia, Tyler and Max. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Darlene Arpke, and Cheryl Marie Fricke, and grandson, Ryan Bray. Marilyn was very proud of her years working as a professional telephone operator, first at Illinois Bell and later for the federal government as an operator and in other rolls. She showed her love through caring and serving her children, especially in making delicious pumpkin pies for the holidays. Marilyn had an enduring love of nature, especially cardinals and other wild birds, flowers, and her many faithful dogs and one very special cat, Kitty-Witty. The family farm was her favorite place in all the world and sharing stories of her childhood farm adventures gave her great joy. She had a sharp wit and many of her "zingers" will be humorously recounted by family and caregivers for years to come. Marilyn and Bob were avid St. Louis Cardinals fans and passed on that love to their children and grandchildren. The family thanks the Pleasant Dale Place owners (Jan and Dave) and all of the staff (especially Amy and Peggy) for their truly exceptional care for Marilyn during the past 5 years. Marilyn felt so at home there; knowing this gave us, her family, a rare peace of mind and heart. We are also grateful to the Elara Caring team for their guidance and care for Marilyn during her last illness. Thanks also to Davis-Anderson Funeral Home for their supportive services. Please visit www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in her memory. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home, Girard is in charge of arrangements.