Published on June 8, 2026 6:23 am
Last Updated on June 8, 2026 6:23 am
Marilyn Jenkins of Prescott, Arizona, and formerly of Altamont, Illinois, died on February 24, 2026 of natural causes.
Marilyn was born on July 25, 1933 in Altamont, IL to Clarence and Ruth (Schumacher) Milleville. She was baptized at and grew up attending St. Paul (ELCA) Lutheran Church in Altamont.
Marilyn earned her BS in education at Eastern Illinois University and her MS in administration at St. Xavier University. She married Paul Jenkins, also of Altamont, on August 22, 1954. They settled in the south Chicago suburbs and began their teaching careers. They raised two children, Robert and Rae Lynn. Marilyn was a member of 4-H for 10 years as a girl and an enthusiastic supporter of 4-H as an adult. She represented 4-H of Illinois at the National Congress. Marilyn was passionate about vocational education throughout her career. She presented at national meetings of the Association of Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and represented her school district at the Illinois state capitol. After moving to Prescott, AZ in the 1990s she continued to work for CTE. Marilyn loved collecting antiques and was an active member of the Prescott Questors club. Paul and Marilyn loved their home on Eagle Crest Drive in Prescott. They were active members of American Lutheran Church, Prescott. Marilyn moved to Las Fuentes Senior Living Center following Paul’s death in 2011.
Marilyn is survived by her brother, Gene Milleville, a son, Robert (Susan) and daughter Rae Lynn (Rick) Jirsa. She has four grandchildren: Christopher Jenkins, Katherine (Sam) Lauer, William Jirsa, and Ellyn Rae Jirsa; one great-grandchild; and several beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at St. Paul (ELCA) Lutheran Church, Altamont on June 13, 2026 at 11:00. Visitation will be at 10:00 that morning at the church. Gieseking Funeral Home, Altamont is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the St. Paul (ELCA) Lutheran Church, Altamont.