Marilyn Dianne Guymon, nee Smith, 77, of Belleville, IL, passed away peacefully Monday, August 5, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Marilyn was born in Canton, IL, on March 16, 1947. She was active in her high school and later attended Illinois State University where she received her degree in education. She made many close friends both in high school and at Illinois State whom she remained close with throughout her life. She later moved to Lisle, IL, where she met David. They were married on August 7, 1971, in Belleville, IL. Marilyn and David spent the early years of their marriage in Lisle, Marilyn teaching and David in law school. They relocated to Belleville, IL, in 1975 where two children followed, Erin and Matt. Marilyn was a loving and supportive mother, wonderful role model, and was always there when needed. She dearly loved her four grandchildren; Jack, Brynn, Avery, and Hayden, and was a wonderful grandmother to them.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Edna and Raymond Smith. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, David Guymon; children, Erin (Dirk) Huebner of Waterloo, IL and Matthew (Katie) Guymon of Webster Groves, MO; grandchildren, Jack and Brynn Huebner, and Avery and Hayden Guymon; sister, Barbara Almeida of Canton, IL; dear friends, Karol (Don Repovich) Harris of Belleville, IL, and Pru (Steve) Wolf; nieces, cousins, and many close friends.
Marilyn loved teaching and spent 35 years of her life in education where she was able to impact the lives of the children and adults who were lucky enough to have her as their teacher. After leaving Lisle and moving to Belleville, Marilyn taught at Belle Valley District #119, assisted adults in obtaining their GED from SWIC, and spent most of her career teaching third grade at Union Elementary School in District #118. She always had a word of kindness and encouragement for those she encountered. Along the way, she made close friends, many of whom continued their friendship into retirement.
Marilyn loved to spend time with her family and friends. She enjoyed traveling with her family and looked forward to her annual “girl’s trip” with her childhood and college friends. She enjoyed spending time with friends golfing and socializing. Marilyn could often be found cheering her grandchildren on from the sidelines at their various activities. She was a selfless person who took pleasure in caring for those she loved.
Marilyn’s family and friends will continue to love her deeply and she will be forever missed. Her love and compassion will be part of them forever.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice or the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) to help fund the research and support programs that will hopefully one day grant us victory over this vicious disease. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Marilyn has requested that her remains be cremated and spread in accordance with her wishes.
For friends and family, a brief celebration of Marilyn’s life will begin at 2 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, at St. Clair Country Club, Belleville, IL. Immediately following, there will be an open reception with drinks and light d’oeuvres until 5 p.m. for all that wish to help us celebrate Marilyn’s life.
