Marjorie Mae Penwarden 1918-2021

Marjorie passed away on June 20 after a brief illness. Born in Kirkland, IL, on May 30, 1918, to William and Gladys (Strawn) Culvey, she was one of 7 children. Marjorie grew up in Belvidere, IL, but has lived in the Rockton-Rockford area since 1955. Marjorie had a special bond with her sister, Mickey Billman, as they shared the same birthday.

Marjorie graduated from the University of Illinois in 1940. Her first teaching position was in Sandoval, IL. She married Ray S. Penwarden August 20, 1944.

Marjorie raised seven children while teaching, fund-raising for the PTA, and supervising numerous school and 4-H projects. One of Marjorie's many accomplishments included circulating petitions to establish Rock Valley Community College.

After teaching 42 years in public high schools and adult education classes she retired, but remained active in community services. Rockton American Legion Auxiliary, Hononegah Homemakers, and 4-H were among her many interests. She enjoyed playing the piano and sharing her musical renditions with others.

Marjorie's love of God, family and country was evident to all. Many people benefited from her guidance and wisdom over the years. She was a patient, loving and giving person who will be greatly missed.

She was predeceased by her husband, Ray S.; son, John Earl Penwarden; brothers, Merrill (Estalie), Donald (Elizabeth), Kenneth (Francis) and Stanley Culvey; and sister, Isabelle (Kenneth) Moore.

Marjorie was the family Matriarch. Survivors include her sons, Ray W. (Diane) Penwarden, Mora, MN, and Thomas (Laura) Penwarden, Rockford, IL; daughters, Mila (Richard) Carlson, Rockford, IL, Nancy (Kenny) Dennis, Henderson, NV, Julia (Eugene) Tashima, Apple Valley, CA, and Mary Penwarden, Minneapolis, MN; sister, Marguerite (Charles) Billman, Poplar Grove, IL; daughter-in-law, Donna (John) Penwarden; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be from 4:30-7:30 p.m., Monday, June 28, 2021, at Anderson Funeral & Cremation Services, 218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere, IL, 61008. An American Legion Auxiliary Service will be at 7:00 p.m. at the visitation. Memorial service is scheduled at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 29, 2021 at First Evangelical Covenant Church, 316 Wood Road, Rockford, IL. Family graveside service prior to the memorial service will be at Highland Garden of Memories, Belvidere, IL. Pastor Paul Bengtson will be officiating services.

Special thanks to the staff of Morning Star Village for their loving care of Marjorie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Rockford Rescue Mission, First Evangelical Covenant Church, or Morning Star Village. To light a candle or share a condolence, please visit www.AndersonFCS.com.