Marilyn Jean Lester

Marilyn Jean Lester, 81, of East Peoria, passed away surrounded by her family on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. Born January 18, 1942 to John and Marie (Sacly) Wenglarz in Peoria, she married James Allen Lester on June 13, 1966. He preceded her in death on October 21, 2018.

Also preceding her in death were her parents, her brother, Richard Wenglarz, and her grandson, Matthew Nena.

Marilyn is survived by her twin sister, Madelyn Carole (James) Harrison of Texas, sons Timothy (Kellie) Lester and Todd (Aimee) Lester, daughter Tina (Michael) Nena and six grandchildren, Chase and Kassidy Lester, Blake and Haley Lester and Jessica and Zachary Nena.

She graduated from East Peoria Community High School in 1960. She loved her class reunions and met with classmates regularly throughout the year. After high school, she worked in customer service and bookkeeping at numerous companies, but she spent many years raising her children and attending their sporting events. She often referred to herself as a taxi driver.

Marilyn developed an early fascination with cars that evolved into a lifelong passion. She meticulously cared for each vehicle that she owned. Her sons introduced her to golf, which became the focus in her life once her kids were grown. She was a member of Quail Meadows Country Club before joining Arrowhead Country Club almost 30 years ago. Her golf friends were her close circle, and they provided endless support and compassion for her over the months that she battled cancer.

Marilyn’s Celebration of Life (visitation) will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria. A private service and interment will be held at a later date at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital (Midwest Affiliate). Online condolences may be left at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/peoria-il/marilyn-lester-11618742.