Marilyn Jean (West) Olds

Marilyn Jean (West) Olds, 94, of Wyanet, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on July 17, 1930, in Wyanet, IL, Marilyn was the daughter of Eric and Berniece (Morris) West. She married Floyd “Victor” Olds on December 28, 1946, at Wyanet Congregational Church. He preceded her in death on May 7, 1993.

Marilyn was a hardworking and devoted woman, always managing multiple jobs throughout her life. Over the years, she worked at the Wyanet Post Office, the Wyanet Bank, and retired from the Bureau County Wyanet Mutual Insurance Agency in 1986, all while keeping the books for Victor’s trucking company and grain-buying business, Pleasant Valley Grain.

Her dedication to the Wyanet community was extensive. She was a charter member of the Wyanet VFW Post 6634 Ladies Auxiliary, serving the organization for 73 years. Additionally, she was a member of the Wyanet Chamber of Commerce, the Wyanet Historical Society, and the Community Bible Church. Most importantly, Marilyn cherished hosting Christmas and holiday gatherings for her large extended family.

Above all, family was Marilyn’s greatest joy and priority. She remained an essential part of her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s lives, celebrating their achievements, offering guidance, and providing unconditional love. Her warmth, wisdom, and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Marilyn is survived by her two sons, Max (Donita) Olds of Wyanet and Donald Olds of Kennesaw, GA; seven grandchildren, Eric (Lynn) Olds, Katy Jo Olds, Preston Olds, Madison Olds, Samantha Bohm, Molly Bohm, and Tim Bohm; and one great-grandchild, Cassidy Olds. She is also survived by her special nieces, Pam Stephenson Wroblewski and Judy Olds, and her dear lifelong best friend, Joanne Baker.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Nancy Jo Olds-Bohm; her great-grandson, Brett Carlson; her two brothers, Roger and Robert West; and her parents.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Princeton. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Community Bible Church in Wyanet, officiated by Pastor Kevin Quinn. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Wyanet.

Memorials may be directed to the Wyanet VFW, Wyanet Historical Society, or Community Bible Church in Wyanet.

Online condolences may be made at www.grant-johnsonfh.com.