Marianne Holtsclaw

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Marianne Holtsclaw, who departed this world peacefully in her sleep at Burlington Hospital on June 18, 2026, at the age of 87. Marianne, a cherished daughter of the late Harold and Margaret Brackensick, was born on August 28, 1938, in the quaint town of Sutter, Illinois, where her remarkable journey of love, dedication, and resilience began. Marianne was the loving wife of the late Geral Dee Holtsclaw, whom she married on June 11, 1955, in Tioga, Illinois. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership, and together, they built a beautiful family and a life rich with laughter and cherished memories. Marianne's family was the cornerstone of her existence. She was a devoted mother to her daughters Sharon Newman, Gerolyn (Larry) Mack, Taresa (Shawn) Ryan, and Sheila Handyside. Her nurturing spirit and unconditional love were felt deeply by her children, and she instilled in them the values of compassion and integrity. Though Marianne faced the heartache of losing her beloved husband Geral, son Micheal Ray in infancy, and son-in-laws Claude "Butch" Watkins, Carl Newman, and Thomas Handyside, her resilience and strength inspired all who knew her. She was predeceased by her dear parents, her sister Marilyn Schmitt and brother-in-law Wayne Schmitt, as well as her sister-in-law Carol Brackensick. Marianne is survived by her devoted siblings Phyllis (Wayne) Pence, Kathryn (Will) Bavery, and Richard Brackensick. Her legacy of love and family extends to her ten grandchildren: Andy (Verna) Watkins, Bob (Lindsay) Watkins, Shawn (Stephanie) Watkins, Tasha Scheetz, Trevor (Caitlyn) Scheetz, Gavin Handyside, Alexis (Luke) Kelly, Kailyn (Brian Joy) Handyside, Candice (Paul) Chapman, and Carl Newman II. She was also blessed with 27 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride into her life. An active member of the Basco community, Marianne found joy and fulfillment in her surroundings. She had a passion for sewing and baking, hobbies that she lovingly shared with her family. Her holiday dinners were legendary, a time when her home overflowed with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her lovingly prepared meals. A service to celebrate Marianne's life will be held on June 27, 2026, at South Cemetery in Basco, Illinois. As we gather to honor her memory, we will remember her as a beacon of love and strength, a woman whose legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched. Marianne Holtsclaw's life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and devotion. As we bid farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived and a woman deeply cherished by all who were fortunate to know her. Her spirit will forever guide and inspire her family and friends, reminding us that love is eternal.