Marion Kaye Stimpson

Marion Kaye (Rourke) Stimpson peacefully passed away at her home on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, in Havana, IL. She was born February 23rd, 1947 at her home in Watertown, Michigan to Kenneth and Ethyl Rourke. She married Edwin Stimpson Jr. on February 14th, 1970 at Watertown Methodist Church, Watertown Michigan.

Preceding Marion in death were her father, Kenneth Rourke, mother, Ethyl Rourke, baby brother James, brother Kenny Rourke, and sister Paula (Rourke) Nugent. She is survived by husband, Edwin Stimpson, her two children, Jennifer and Dauson Stimpson of Havana, Illinois and one sister Georgia (Rourke) Wilson of Carsonville, Michigan.

Marion was born in her home in Watertown, Michigan, during a blizzard with her sister Georgia announcing her arrival by calling “Baby, baby, baby” from her crib. Marion went on to attend a one room school house before moving to Sandusky, Michigan where she graduated from Sandusky High School in 1965. After graduation she held a few jobs, most notably at WMIC radio station where she met Edwin Stimpson in 1969. Edwin asked Marion to help him break in a new pair of shoes by going on a walk on their first date and the two were married February 14th, 1970. Marion and Edwin moved to Havana, Illinois in 1972 after purchasing WDUK radio station. In 1977, the couple lovingly adopted their first child, Jennifer, and in 1985 opened their hearts again, adopting Dauson.

Marion became an active member of the community of Havana, by being involved in her children’s school activities, joining and becoming president and vice president of the Havana Women’s Club, as well as the Havana Area Prevention Team where she also served as president and vice president. She also attended the Jacksonville Area Independent Living visions support group held in Havana, Marion faithfully attended the Havana Church of Christ where she was involved in Sunday school classes, cooking for church dinners and potlucks. Marion was an avid reader, utilizing the Havana Public Library and later on in life, the Illinois Talking Book Library.

A memorial service will be held at the Havana Church of Christ on February 16th at 11:00am with visitation starting at 10:30am. Pastor Bill Boyce will be officiating. Lunch will be served in the fellowship hall following the service. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be presented to the Havana Food Pantry or the Havana Ministerial Association.

Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.