The community of Deerfield, Illinois, mourns the peaceful passing of Marilyn M. Craig, who departed this life at the age of 94 on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Lake Forest Place after a long illness. Marilyn’s remarkable life was a testament to dedication, service, and unwavering love for her family and community, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Born Marilyn Mohr on October 5, 1930, in Big Bend, Wisconsin, she spent her formative years in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, alongside her parents, Wilbur and Dorothy Mohr, and her three younger sisters. Growing up above the family Standard Oil station, Marilyn’s early life shaped her resilient spirit. She excelled academically and socially, graduating from Mukwonago High School in 1948, where she proudly served as the drum majorette.
Her pursuit of knowledge led her to the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Journalism in 1952. That same year, Marilyn embarked on a new chapter, marrying Raymond L. Craig, who would precede her in death in 2015. Their early married life saw them reside in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and Stillwater, Oklahoma, before they settled permanently in Deerfield, Illinois, in 1956, a place Marilyn would call home for nearly seven decades.
In Deerfield, Marilyn M. Craig embraced an exceptionally active and fulfilling life. She was devoted to raising her four children while also finding time for her passions, including playing tennis. Her energy and commitment extended beyond her home, as she became a cornerstone of the community, dedicating countless hours to various organizations.
Marilyn’s profound commitment to public service was evident through her long-standing involvement with the First Presbyterian Church, where she was a cherished member for almost 70 years. Her leadership qualities were recognized when she was elected to serve for many years as the West Deerfield Township Clerk, and later, as its Supervisor, roles in which she tirelessly advocated for her constituents and contributed significantly to local governance, embodying the spirit of a true Deerfield community leader.
Marilyn’s legacy continues through her beloved family. She is survived by her four loving children: Susan C. Guernsey (David, Jr.), Paul L. Craig (Sarah), Mark A. Craig (Paula), and Barbara A. Craig. Her cherished grandchildren include Margaret G. Gunter (Andrew), Elizabeth H. Guernsey (Terry McMahon), David T. Guernsey III (Justin Huxol), Malcolm A. Craig, Julia C. Smith (George), Emily C. Smith (Garrett), Charlotte S. Craig, Katherine L. Craig, and Jonathon T. Craig. She also leaves behind six adored great-grandchildren: Luke, Holden, Mollie, Jack, Caroline, and Quincy, along with numerous nieces and nephews, ensuring her memory lives on through multiple generations.
She is survived by her dear sister, Vivian Norton of Verona, Wisconsin. Marilyn was predeceased by her sisters Barbara M. Hall of Libertyville, Illinois, and Kathryn M. Naukkari of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, whose memories she held close throughout her life.
A memorial service to celebrate Marilyn’s remarkable life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Deerfield, Illinois, on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The exact time for the service will be announced in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be sent to either First Presbyterian Church, located at 824 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015, or the Geneva Foundation of Presbyterian Homes, 8707 Skokie Blvd, Suite 400, Skokie, IL 60077, honoring Marilyn’s spirit of philanthropy.
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