Marilyn Melhouse, 79, of Farmington, IL, formerly of Avon, IL, passed away at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, October 20, 2022, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. She was born November 16, 1942 in Farmington, the daughter of Matthew and Louise Francisco. She was raised and educated in Farmington, graduating from Farmington High School in 1960.
She graduated from Midstate College of Commerce in Peoria in 1962. She began her career at Keystone Steel and Wire before moving to Avon and working at Saunders Hospital and Clinic for over 40 years. She married Larry Melhouse August 22, 1964.
Surviving Marilyn is her husband of 58 years, Larry; children, Mike (Wendy) Melhouse of Kewanee, IL, Lisa (Jim) Ryan of Elmwood, IL, Michelle Melhouse of Bloomington, IN; brother-in-law, Ross (Melinda) Melhouse of Glasford, IL, nephew Rusty (Sarah) Melhouse of Canton, IL; grandchildren; Ashley, Amber, Aricka, Amanda, Payge; step-grandchildren, Nicole, Melissa, Ashley, Taylor; and 10 step-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
While they lived at Little Swan Lake, Larry, Marilyn, and their family enjoyed boating and swimming. She loved to read, bowl, scrapbook, play cards, and traveling to visit family and friends. Marilyn enjoyed watching sports, especially when her children and grandchildren were participating. Spending time with her grandchildren was her greatest joy in life. She was also fond of playing the slots in the casino and bringing home “free” casino memorabilia.
She was a member of the Avon United Methodist Church, the Red Hat Society, and the Angels in Action Relay for Life team.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. in the Avon United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11:30 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will be in the Oak Ridge Cemetery, Farmington, IL immediately following the services. Memorials may be made to the Avon United Methodist Church or the Farmington Rescue Squad and left in the care of the funeral home.
