Marilyn Mackey

1940 - 2025

Marilyn Mackey

August 17, 1940 - July 18, 2025

Marilyn Irene Mackey, 84, of Monticello, passed away on Friday, July 18th, at Carle Foundation Hospital.

Marilyn was born on August 17, 1940, to John and Mildred (Smock) Benjamin. She grew up and spent most of her life in Cisco. She married John S. Mackey on December 22, 1962 in Cisco. She is survived by sons, Byron (Jo Ann) Mackey of Seymour, Craig (Liz) Mackey of Marseilles; daughter, Karen (Jonathan) Bonness of Olathe, Kan.; and sister, Donna (Gary) Chandler of Clinton. Also surviving are her beloved grandchildren, John, Benjamin, Carter, Grace, Tyler and Calista. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; and brothers, Russell and John Benjamin.

Marilyn taught home economics at Monticello and Niantic-Harristown High Schools. She was very active in her community, and she served on the Piatt County Mental Health Board, the Cisco Library Board and the Cisco PTA. She enjoyed being an election judge, a member of the North Birthday Club and she was very involved in her children's activities including helping with the Monticello High School Madrigals and Piatt County 4-H. She was an avid gardener, she decorated cakes, was an excellent cook who liked to bake and can fruits and vegetables she grew, and she was a very gifted seamstress. She was always busy knitting, cross-stitching or crocheting incredible homemade gifts.

Marilyn moved to Hollybrook Assisted Living Facility in Monticello in 2021. She enjoyed meeting new friends, playing bingo, watching movies and participating in many different crafting activities.

Most of all Marilyn cherished being a farm wife, a mother and a grammy.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, July 22, at 10 a.m., at Croninger Cemetery in Cisco. All who knew Marilyn are invited to a luncheon at the Cisco Center immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to the Hollybrook Activities Program or the Cisco Library.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mackey-wrightfuneralhome.com.