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

Marilyn was born on April 30, 1938, in Springfield, IL, 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 was preceded in death by her husband, parents, son Gregg Kirkland, and brother Robert Thompson. She is survived by her son David and wife Deb of Carlinville, and daughter-in-law Graci Kirkland of Allen, Texas. Marilyn was a proud grandmother of Blake, Matt, Gregg, Jessie (Miller), and Jaimee (Boston) and six great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sister Karen Wills and husband Don of Carlinville, sister-in-law Becky Thompson of Carlinville, and several nieces and nephews.

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 many activities, such as playing cards with neighborhood card clubs and participating in ladies' golf league for several years. She was an avid reader and could often be found with a book in hand. Marilyn also loved Illinois basketball in the winter and watching Cardinal baseball with John in the spring. Her favorite holiday was Christmas, where she delighted in spoiling her children and grandchildren. One of her greatest joys was attending her grandchildren's school activities. Marilyn also loved cooking for her family, who will greatly miss her homemade cherry pies.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 9:00 to 11:00 am, with the funeral service at 11:00 am at the Carlinville United Methodist Church, Carlinville, IL.

Burial will take place at Bethel Ridge Cemetery near Atwater, IL, with Reverend Bryce Hays officiating.

Memorials may be made to Bethel Ridge Cemetery.

Davis Anderson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.