Marilyn E. Kelly

Marilyn Elaine Kelly, age 90, passed away peacefully at the Villas at Galva on July 12, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

Marilyn was born on October 12, 1935, in Kewanee, IL, to Clarence and Evelyn Bartz. She was the oldest of five children and was raised alongside her siblings, Lillian, Clarence, Daryl, and Jackie. She graduated from Kewanee High School with the Class of 1953 and attended St. Peter’s Evangelical Church UCC in Kewanee.

After graduation, Marilyn worked at JCPenney, where she met the love of her life, DeRollo Kelly. They were united in marriage on April 17, 1955, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span 63 years. Together they made their home in Galva, IL, which was the home of her great grandparents. They faithfully attended the United Methodist Church. Marilyn was active in Wesley Weds and the church’s Sunday School program, finding great joy in serving her church family.

Marilyn devoted herself to raising her three sons, creating a home filled with love, encouragement and unwavering support. She especially enjoyed cheering on her boys at their sporting events and treasured the many memories they created together. Later in life, she worked for Dixline, where she remained until her retirement.

Marilyn and DeRollo shared a love of travel and adventure. They explored much of the United States in their camper truck, visiting the western states, Canada, and Florida. They also enjoyed memorable trips abroad with family to Europe, including the Isle of Man and Germany, as well as vacations to Hawaii and Alaska.

Marilyn is lovingly survived by her three sons and daughters-in-law, Kim and Pam Kelly, Mark and Rochelle Kelly, and Tom and Karen Kelly. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren; Jeremiah (Heather) Kelly, Hilary (Eddie) Peters, Kirsten (Josh) Autery, Seth (Donel) Kelly, Sierra (Frank White) Kelly, Rebecca (William) McClain, and William Kelly. She was also blessed with nine beloved great-grandchildren: Miah, Willow, Piper, Beckham, Kelly, Kam, Theo, Zion, and Quinn, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, DeRollo Kelly and her parents.

Marilyn will be remembered for her quiet strength, steadfast faith, loving heart, and unwavering devotion to her family. She found happiness in life’s simple blessings—her home, her church, traveling with DeRollo, and celebrating every milestone of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and unconditional love leave a legacy that will continue through the generations of her family.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Villas at Galva and OSF Hospice for the compassionate care, dignity, and comfort they provided during Marilyn’s final days.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 15 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva with Pastor Rebecca Gearhart officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Galva Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Galva in Marilyn’s memory.

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