Obituary of Marie Walden

Marie E. Walden, 95, of Girard, passed away Friday, August 7, 2020 at her residence in Girard, IL. Marie was born on February 10, 1925 to Arthur and Johanna Elizabeth (Ritterbush) Miller in Modesto, IL. Marie graduated from Modesto High School with the class of 1944. A few weeks later, she married Kendall O. Walden, on June 15, 1944 at the Modesto Baptist Church. They were married for over 71 years, until Kendall's death on March 19, 2016. Marie was a homemaker and worked hard around the family farm and raised their 7 children. She was a member of Pleasant Dale Baptist Church, taught Sunday School and was very active in church activities. Marie was a member of the Womens Missionary Union (WMU) and also enjoyed quilting. Marie is survived by four sons; Estel (Linda) Walden of Girard, IL, Dwight (Sue) Walden of Girard, IL, Jerry (D. Marie) Walden of Girard, IL, and William (Deb) Walden of Springfield, IL; daughter, Joyce (Stanley) Qualls of Denton, TX; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters-in-laws; several nieces and nephews. Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Johanna Miller; husband, Kendall O. Walden; sons, Darrell and Leslie Walden; sisters, Maurine Owens and Lavona Greer; brothers, Marvin, Raymond, and Kenneth Miller. Public Graveside Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at 11:30 am at the Union Chapel Cemetery, Girard, IL, with Rev. Ron Rhodus, officiating. Social distancing is requested. Memorials are suggested to the Carmi Baptist Children's Home.