Marilyn Louise Curless, 74, of Jacksonville, formerly of Havana, passed away at 4:30 a.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025 at her home. She was born on January 23, 1951 in Havana to Oliver and Judith (Cooper) Matthews. She married Donal Dean Curless on April 15, 1972 in Havana, and he preceded her in death on August 23, 2016. Marilyn is survived by her sons, Ryan (Anne) Curless of Chatham, Matthew Curless of Jacksonville, and Nicholas (Ronny) Curless of Jacksonville; grandchildren, Liam and Finnegan Curless, Erin Curless, and Jera and Theo Waters; and siblings, Linda Green of East Peoria and Bob (Laura) Matthews of Brighton, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and sisters, Betty Matthews and Barbara McBride. Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother who found great joy in her family, especially time spent with her grandchildren. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school for more than 50 years. Marilyn worked for AT&T for over 30 years before retiring. An avid reader, she was deeply devoted to her church and family and was always happiest when her grandchildren were close by. Funeral services were held on Friday, December 19 at 12:30 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Havana, with a visitation prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Rev. Jay Zaremba officiated. Burial followed the service at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Havana. Memorial donations may be made in Marilyn’s name to the First Baptist Church. Online condolences can be left for her family at www.hurleyfh.com. Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.
