Loretta "Marge" Margery Arnold, 87, peacefully passed away on June 3, 2022, at Herrin Hospital surrounded by family.
Marge was born in Monmouth, IL on November 19, 1934, to Loretta and James Leary. She was the only girl out of four siblings and she often laughingly referred to herself as "Dad's Favorite!" Marge's family owned many businesses, but the one that really mattered in her life was the Monmouth Hotel in the 1950s (currently the Monmouth Post Office). That's where she met the love of her life, Ronald Arnold from Springfield, who was in town expanding the General Telephone Systems in Monmouth. In 1959, they were married at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Ron was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan. Marge quickly converted from the "Family Cubs Club" to a Cardinal fan. This made for very interesting and enthusiastic family gatherings throughout the years!
Their children Lynnette and Jeffrey were born in 1960 and 1962 respectively. The family settled in Marion IL in 1972. Margie, as she was often called, was a very loving and nurturing mother throughout their childhood.
Through the years, Marge held several positions including insurance company administration, data entry for Blue Cross Blue Shield and several retail businesses in Marion; however, her greatest accomplishments were those of Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother, which sparked her greatest joy.
In 1987, her title of "Grandmother" began as Grandchildren Lacia (Lynn), Aaron and Jaime (Jeff) entered the world. She later continued the streak adding the title of "GREAT" Grandmother with the addition of Alexis, Damien, Evan, Raegan, and most recently baby Quinn. She LOVED, LOVED, LOVED her grandchildren, and doted on them every chance she could.
Most recently Marge has been making friends with all the residents of The Voyage Senior Living of Herrin. She found a very happy balance in that environment and she made many friends along the way.
Marge is survived by one Daughter, Lynnette Arnold, and one Son, Jeffery Arnold (Lisa); three Grandchildren, Lacia Arnold, Aaron Arnold (Karla), and Jaime Koerner (Dan); and five Great-Grandchildren, Alexis Koerner, Damien Arnold, Evan Koerner, Raegan Baker, Quinn Koerner and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Marge was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her three brothers, Charles "Jimmy" Leary, William "Bill" Leary, and Edward "Lee" Leary.
Visitation will be held at Binkley-Ross Funeral Home on Thursday, June 9 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. located at 1702 W. Boulevard, Marion, IL 62959. Funeral Services will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Friday, June 10, at 10 a.m. located at 600 N. Russell Street in Marion, IL. Burial Service will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery located at 216 W McDonald Street in Marion. A luncheon will follow at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.
