Marilyn H. Shipley, nee Lawrence, 96, of Belleville, IL, born Monday, May 19, 1930, in Fort Smith, AK, passed away peacefully Sunday, November 1, 2026 at her residence in Belleville.
Marilyn dedicated her life to her family. Her and her late husband, A.J., raised 8 children which she poured all her love and attention into – always making sure they felt cared for. And years later, she passed on that love, cherishing the time she spent with her grandchildren who brought her endless happiness and meant so much to her.
She was also a passionate Cardinal’s baseball fan and enthusiastically cheered them on every chance she had.
Marilyn had a love for cooking and bringing people together around the table. Thanksgiving was especially meaningful to her, as it gave her the opportunity to gather with her large family, share a wonderful meal, make memories, and enjoy the company of those she loved most. These family gatherings were more than just traditions; they were a reflection of what mattered most to Marilyn.
Marilyn had a strong faith in God and was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church in Fairview Heights, IL. There, she met many lifelong friends that she cherished deeply.
She will be deeply missed, always remembered, and carried on in the memories of all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Lester Lawrence, mother, Ida Mae Lawrence, sons, Rudy Lawrence, Randy Shipley, daughter, Brenda Fishback, siblings and their spouses, Kermit (Virginia) Lawrence, Inez (Johnnie) Copeland, James (Louise) Lawrence, Carrie (Claude) Wheeler, Norman (Joyce) Lawrence, Leta (Lindsey) Wise, Fred (Marylou) Lawrence, Wanda (Richard) Simpson, and Pat (Dick) Smith;
Surviving are her children, Lucy (Al) Flohr of Sikeston, MO, Jackie (Shirley) Shipley of Belleville, IL, Euleta (Monte) Bergner of Mexico, MO, Kevin (Judy) Shipley of Union, MO, Marvin (Heidi) Shipley of Palm Coast, FL, son-in-law, Jeff Fishback, daughters-in-law, Mary Lawrence, Tina Shipley, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Memorials: Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Fairview Heights, IL.
Visitation: Visitation from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.
Services: A funeral service will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, November 9, 2026, at Kurrus, with Pastor Ronny Carroll officiating. Interment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
