Phyllis J. Marsh

Phyllis Jean Marsh, 84, of Freeman Spur, Illinois, passed away on July 6, 2025, at Herrin Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Phyllis was born on December 27, 1940, Freeman Spur, Illinois, the eldest of six children to Ed and Christine (Claybrook) Brown. From an early age, she was known for her strong work ethic, generous spirit, and enduring love for her family.

On May 28, 1960, she married Frank Marsh in Waukegan, Illinois. Together they built a life in Racine, Wisconsin, where they raised six children who survive her: Jacqueline Marsh of Freeman Spur, Valencia and (Gary) Miller, David Marsh of Murphysboro, Laurie Marsh of Herrin, Marsha Miner of Freeman Spur, and Christa Williams of Murphysboro. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Janikka Marsh of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Solomon and (Vanessa) Emmanuel of Chicago, Illinois.

Phyllis was a proud grandmother to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She is also survived by her beloved siblings: Linda Brown of Freeman Spur, Edward (LaWana) Brown of St. Paul, Minnesota, Darryl (Rebecca) Brown of Herrin, Felicia Brown of Freeman Spur, and Kerry Brown of Freeman Spur.

Throughout her life, Phyllis was never afraid of hard work. She held various positions including roles at the county hospital in Racine, Allen Industries, a container stapling facility, and Mattingly’s Nursing Home.

Phyllis attended Washington Park High School in Racine, WI. She loved cooking, took pride in her home, and had an impeccable sense of cleanliness. She enjoyed westerns, sitting outside watching birds, and playing a good hand of spades. She especially cherished fishing trips — once catching a mud puppy that, to everyone's amusement, seemed to bark. Phyllis was known for her strong voice, her willingness to listen, and her ability to make anyone feel at home.

Her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Ministry of Comfort Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.