Marilyn Schram

Marilyn J. Schram, 91, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at Centralia Manor-leaving behind a lifetime of stories, love, and strength that will continue to live on in those who knew her.

Marilyn was born on September 4, 1934, in Centralia, Illinois, the daughter of John Miller and Leta (Dennis) Miller. From an early age, she carried a sense of independence and resilience that would define her life. She graduated from Centralia High School and, in June of 1952, married James Langenfeld. Together, they welcomed three children and built the foundation of a family that would grow far beyond what Marilyn could have imagined.

Life took new turns, as it often does, and on November 9, 1985, Marilyn married Carl C. Schram. Their 23 years together were filled with shared adventures, companionship, and one of Marilyn's greatest joys-watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren grow.

Marilyn was a devoted mother to her children who all survive her: Glenda Jordan and her husband Wayne of Walnut Hill, Guy Langenfeld and his wife Vicky of Austin, Texas, and Jeanne Plassman of Austin, Texas. Her love multiplied through her grandchildren-Jeremiah Jordan and wife Amanda of Carlyle; Erin Moser and husband Wade of Woodlawn; Jacob Jordan and wife Chelsey of Walnut Hill; Justin Jordan and Terry Herr of St. Louis, Missouri; Jennifer Knobbe and husband Chris; Amanda Plassman; Matthew Langenfeld; and Lauren Langenfeld. She was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Marilyn had a lifelong and tender love for animals. Over the years, her home was shared with many beloved pets, each with a story she was always eager to tell. Through every season of life, animals brought Marilyn comfort, laughter, and purpose. Marilyn is also survived by her beloved cat, Minnie.

Marilyn took great pride in being a homemaker and mother, pouring love into her family through home-cooked meals, careful stitches, and a home that always felt welcoming. Over the years, she worked at Jim Ford, Toppers, and later with Weight Watchers.

Those who knew Marilyn knew her as a storyteller-someone who could bring the past to life with a smile, a laugh, or a knowing look. She adored animals, doted endlessly on her grandchildren, and carried herself with a spunk and independence that challenged the expectations placed on women of her generation. Marilyn was strong, self-reliant, and unafraid to live life on her own terms.

Above all, Marilyn was a woman of faith. She believed deeply in her Savior, Jesus Christ, and shared her love and knowledge of Him. Her faith anchored her life and comforted her in its final chapter.

Marilyn was dearly loved, and she will be deeply missed. Her stories, her strength, and her unwavering love for family will be passed down for generations to come-just as she would have wanted.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 14 from 10:00am - 11:00am at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with the funeral service following at 11:00am. Pastor Steve Lyles will officiate. Burial will follow at the Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Vernon. Memorial donations may be made to the Jefferson County Animal Control and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois, 62801 (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Marilyn's Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home's Facebook page.