Malinda Sue McLain, age 55 of Smithshire, Illinois, passed away at 3:15 a.m. Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Allure of Lake Story in Galesburg, Illinois.  She was born August 24, 1969 in Monmouth, Illinois, the daughter of Jack and Ruth Cassiday McLain. After her father passed away, she was raised by her mom and dad, Ruth and Albert Watson.

Malinda worked as an insurance agent for many years with Prall Insurance Agency in Burlington.  She also worked at American Ordinance in Middletown.  She was a member of the Optimist Club of Burlington.

Survivors include one son: Karsen McLain of Smithshire, her dad: Albert R. Watson of Smithshire, one brother: Albert E. "Bub" (Jana) Watson of Media, IL, one niece: Payton (Ryan) John,  one nephew: Christopher (Zoe Ortery) Watson, one great niece: Serenity Sue John, and one great nephew: Legend John. She was preceded in death by her mother: Ruth Watson and her father: Jack McLain.

A Celebration Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst, followed by burial in the Ellison Cemetery near Smithshire, IL.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.  A memorial fund has been established for the American Cancer Society.  Please visit Malinda's obituary at banksandbeals.com to leave a condolence.