Marie A. Lavender

Marie Anne Lavender, 90, of Galesburg, died peacefully at home, Monday, July 26, 2021. Marie was born February 7, 1931 in Galesburg, the daughter of Carl N. and Vivian C. (Infusina) Polillo.  She married Wilbur E. Lavender on February 4, 1950 in Galesburg.  He preceded her in death on May 18, 1983.  Marie is survived by two sons, Stephen (Julie) Lavender of Ann Arbor, MI and David Lavender of Galesburg; one daughter, Vicki (Donn) Hanson of Galesburg; two grandchildren, Scott Michael (Elizabeth “Betsy”) Lavender and Laura (Pablo Fenton) Lavender; and two great grandchildren, Benjamin Scott Lavender and Madeline Marie Lavender.  She is also survived by one brother, John (Dolores) Polillo of Galesburg; two sisters-in-law, Cecilia Polillo of Galesburg and Debie Polillo of Colorado; and two honorary grandsons, Caleb Lepisto and Tristan Lepisto.  Along with her husband and parents, Marie is preceded in death by two sisters, Lucille Campisi and Rose Wiechert; three brothers, George, Peter, and William Polillo.  Marie enjoyed being at home while her children were growing up.  After Wilbur’s passing, Marie worked for many years for Knapco Distributors. She was a charter member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and an avid Notre Dame fan.  Marie loved animals, especially cats, her Italian heritage, and watching Wheel of Fortune and Gunsmoke.  She had a deep love for her family and never stopped being a mom to her children.  During her last few weeks of illness, Marie was grateful for all the phone calls, texts, visits, and cards she received from her friends and family.  The family would like to give special thanks to Julie and Judy (the J girls) from OSF Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion.  Graveside services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 31, 2021 at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg.  Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate.  No visitation will be held.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Guardian Angels Humane Society or Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.