Marilyn Kay Evans

Marilyn Kay Evans, 83, of Bradford, IL passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL; from a brief and unexpected illness.

Marilyn was born on April 15, 1942 in Bloomington, IL the daughter of Elmer and Gladys (Zimmerman) Punke. She graduated as Salutatorian from El Paso High School Class of 1960. Marilyn married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Orval “Ray” Evans on July 3, 1960 at El Paso Lutheran Church in El Paso, IL. He preceded her in death on August 12, 2024, and she missed him terribly.  In her younger years she worked as a telephone operator and later at the Bradford Banking Center in Bradford retiring as Vice President of the bank after 35 years of service.

Marilyn and Ray took pride in the home they designed and built entirely by themselves in rural Bradford.  Upon retirement they were snowbirds and resided in Rockport, Texas during the winter. Marilyn enjoyed traveling, crafting, collecting antiques and gardening. She loved her many trips to the boat to play slots and enjoyed playing cards with her friends and family. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her two children, Scott (Judy) Evans and Lori (John) Nelson; two beloved granddaughters, Sara and Ashley Nelson; two very precious great- grandchildren, Ryker and Addisyn all of Bradford, IL; adopted granddaughter Rosemary; best friend and sister in law Karen Terry; and dear friend Jacqui Grant. As the youngest of nine she also leaves behind an abundance of nieces and nephews, as well as beloved Texas Friends and her shadow and fur baby, Opie.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, husband, six sisters and two brothers.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation Rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be directed to Ships of the Prairie animal rehab farm in Bradford, IL.