Marie Martin, age 88, of Clay City, Illinois, passed away Friday morning, May 30, 2025, at her home.

      She was born November 20, 1936, in St. Louis, Missouri.  She was raised by Bill and Amy Billingsley.

      Marie attended Clay City High School.  She had worked at Bel-Tronics in Flora, retiring after 38 years.  Marie played softball in her younger years and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan.  A true Elvis fan, she enjoyed watching Elvis and John Wayne movies.  Some of her best memories were made in the kitchen, cooking and baking with her mom.  Marie always had a soft spot for animals and shared her home with several fur babies over the years – her most recent being her dog, Sam.  She enjoyed spending time in her garden, canning what she grew, and she always appreciated a good cup of coffee.

      Marie was a very special aunt to Judy Wattles, Gary Billingsley, Kevin Billingsley, Rhonda Myers, and Marina (Martin) Bookhout.  She is also survived by several other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

      She was preceded in passing by her parents; foster parents; and 4 brothers: Bill Martin, Bob “R.H.” Billingsley, Bill Billingsley, and Charles Billingsley.

      There will be no services.  Private interment will take place in Clay City Cemetery.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to Fur a Good Paws, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com