Marlene Gillis

Alice "Marlene" Gillis, 89, of Jacksonville, Illinois, passed away Thursday, September 25, 2025, at her home.

She was born February 10, 1936, in Jacksonville, the daughter of James and Marie (Lovell) Walpole.

Marlene is survived by two daughters, Cheryl (Jim) Littig of Bluffs and Marjorie (Dean) Perce of Manito; grandchildren, Kris (Cathy) Coats, Andrew (Heidi) Coats, Jason (Stephanie) Littig, Travis (Alyssa) Littig, and Jacob Gillis; several great grandchildren; and sister, Marcelle Masters Adams of White Hall. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, William "Billy" Gillis (surviving wife Amy of Bluffs); and great granddaughter, Grace Abbott.

Marlene attended Jacksonville High School. She started out as a beautician before becoming an accountant for several businesses in Jacksonville. She had been with Byers Brothers International for most of her career. Marlene was a member of Salem Lutheran Church and had also attended bible study at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, both in Jacksonville. She was an avid bowler for many years and enjoyed sewing, quilting, and yard work. Marlene was a dog lover and loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held 12 Noon, Monday, September 29, 2025, at Salem Lutheran Church, with burial to follow at Memorial Lawn Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Salem Lutheran Church. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements.

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