Marilyn Kay Baldwin

Marilyn Kay Baldwin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on October 5, 2025, at her home in Junction, Illinois. Born on October 24, 1954, in Eldorado, Illinois, Marilyn touched the lives of many during her time on this earth, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and dedication.

For 48 years, Marilyn devoted herself to her career at Banterra Bank, where her commitment and passion for her work made a lasting impression on her colleagues and clients alike. Her gentle spirit was a source of comfort and encouragement for many, embodying the values of hard work and kindness throughout her professional life.

Marilyn’s greatest joy came from her family. She treasured every moment spent with her husband, Melvin Baldwin, and her children, Brian (Dee Dee) Downs and Chris Baldwin. She held a special place in her heart for her grandchildren, Lindsey (Ryan) Owen, Riker Baldwin, and Kara Baldwin, who brought boundless happiness, laughter, and pride into her life. Also, her great-granddaughters, Janelle Owen and Camilla Owen, were cherished by her, and she looked forward to watching them grow.

In her leisure time, Marilyn found delight in crafting. She loved to quilt, crochet, and cross-stitch, often creating beautiful pieces that her family will cherish for generations. These hobbies reflected her nurturing personality and her desire to give something special to those she loved. Above all, spending time with her family was at the heart of everything she did; they will remember her as a patient listener, a trusted confidante, and a source of unwavering love and support.

Marilyn’s family remembers her with love and fondness, and she is survived by her devoted husband, Melvin Baldwin; her sons, Brian (Dee Dee) Downs and Chris Baldwin; her brothers, Bob (Cathy) Rister and Bill (Carla) Rister; several nieces and nephews; and her adored grandchildren. She will forever be missed and remembered by those whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Rister; her mother, Fern (McEwen) Rister; her son, Derek Downs and her late husband Rick Downs. Their spirits will welcome Marilyn with open arms, creating a space of warmth and comfort for her in eternity.

The family will host visitation services on October 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Vickery Funeral Chapel in Ridgway, Illinois. A funeral service will be held the following day, October 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM, also at Vickery Funeral Chapel, leading to her burial at Old Cottonwood Cemetery in Omaha, Illinois, at 2:00pm.

Marilyn lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, her memory woven into the fabric of their lives, just as the beautiful pieces she crafted so lovingly. Her light will continue to shine through the love she shared with all those around her.