Marilyn Jane Fox, 81, of LaHarpe, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at her home. She was born August 20, 1941 in LaHarpe, Illinois, the daughter of Richard Osborne and Mary (Gillett) Shoemate. Marilyn was one of four children and grew up in LaHarpe. She graduated from LaHarpe High School and attended Western Illinois University.

In May of 1960 she married Robert Burr. They later divorced. She married Herbert E. "Herb" Fox in July of 1986. He preceded her in death August 28, 2014.

Marilyn was a homemaker and active participant in many organizations. She taught Sunday School for many years and led the Methodist Youth Fellowship. She also served as a Trustee, and was on the Pastor Parish Committee and the Administrative Board of LaHarpe United Methodist Church.

Marilyn was a Cub Scout Den Mother for four years and was active in all of her sons' Scouting activities. She was an officer in the LaHarpe Arts Council and enjoyed helping with art shows in LaHarpe. She was also a long time member of Modern Mother's Club in LaHarpe.

When her children were older, she went back to college at Western Illinois University and graduated with her Bachelors Degree and later earned her Masters Degree. She taught for 27 years at West Prairie Elementary in Good Hope and Colchester, Illinois, retiring in 2012.

Her greatest joys in life were her husband, Herb, and her family. Marilyn loved the many family gatherings with her extended family. Motorcycle trips with Herb and their friends were always a big part of her life, as well.

Survivors include Marilyn's three children, Lisa (Brent) Corman, Harley (Angela) Burr, and Wesley Burr; two step-children: Jerilyn Bennett and Brian Fox; four grandchildren: Lindsey (Brendan) Moore, Alex (Madelyn) Burr, Elaina Burr and Benjamin Burr; three great-grandchildren: Hadlee, Lucas and Kinley Moore; five step-grandchildren; several step-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Jan (Wes) Owen of Lee Summit, MO and Kathy Strickland of Port Richey, FL and one brother: Richard (Nancy) Shoemate of Vero Beach, FL.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 18, 2023 in the LaHarpe Cemetery, with Rev. Lee Unger officiating. Friends may call at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe after 10:00 a.m. Saturday, where the family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:45 p.m. A memorial fund has been established for the Hancock County Food For Thought Program. Please visit Marilyn's obituary at banksandbeals.com to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.