Marilyn Jean Bess moved on to greener pasture, higher tides, and the dwelling of her Lord and Shepherd on October 6, 2021.

A visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at Grace Lutheran Church in Paris, Illinois. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 P.M. at Grace Lutheran Church with burial in Memorial Gardens in Paris, Illinois.

The family is requesting that everyone in attendance wears a mask.

Marilyn was born June 8, 1924 in Foosland, Illinois, the daughter of the late John Frederick August and Emma Elizabeth Margarite (Sandbrink) Lorenzen.

She married Dewain Roscoe Bess on May 21, 1957 in Paris, Illinois. He preceded her in death on September 18, 1991.

Marilyn was a long time and active member of Grace Lutheran Church in Paris, Illinois and Grace Lutheran Ladies Aid. She was also a member of LWML.

She is survived by her children: Andrew (Angela) Bess of Paris, Illinois, Bennett (Stephanie) Bess of Springfield, Illinois, Jerry (Sue) Bess of Monroe, Michigan; her grandchildren: Chelsey Jean (Jesse) Essex, Clay McKinley Bess, Jensen Breaille Bess, Claire Autumn Bess; her great-grandchild: Sylvie Jean Essex; her siblings: Betty Wendt of Truman, Minnesota, Dave Lorenzen of Chrisman, Illinois.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her siblings: John (Sonny) Lorenzen, Doris Westfall, Eleanor Adams; her infant granddaughter; and her step-son Dewain R. Bess Jr.

Marilyn loved birds and trees.

The Edgar County animal shelter will greatly appreciate your contributions in Marilyn's name. Thank you!