Marlene Clark Painter

 Marlene Clark Painter, 63, of Monmouth, IL, cherished Mother, loving Mee Mee, and Our Family Treasure, passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, Rockford, IL. 

She was born on September 13, 1960 in Monmouth, IL, the daughter of Marvin E. and Dorothy Jean (Reid) Clark. Marlene was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Warren High School. She later earned her technical degree in cosmetology at Sharon Doran’s Academy of Science and Hair Design. 

Marlene was a self-employed creative genius and handywoman. You would never believe she was self-taught and trained. It is easy to marvel over her trash to treasure masterpieces because she put her entire heart into each project, no matter the size. She operated under 'A Painter's Touch' and specialized in painting, home design, furniture, restoration, and decor. Tell her your design dreams and she would bring them to life before your eyes. Thanks to her sentimental and personal touch, her projects would leave you in awe. Marlene also found solace and peace in the garden. She was not born with a green thumb, but a green body. Marlene had a way with flowers, knowing exactly what they needed and how to make them flourish. She appreciated life’s little creations and helped bring their beauty to life. 

Above all, Marlene always put her loved ones' interests before her own. Her most treasured title was being “Mee-Mee”. She was a beacon of light to those around her because she never let life’s daunting obstacles get in her way. She was woven of perseverance and strength and her love truly knew no bounds. She hit the ground running every morning and good luck keeping up! 

Surviving Marlene are her children: Daniel Painter (Spouse Tera, Grandchildren Ella, Thea, Callen), Tucker Painter (Spouse Briana, Grandchild Tera), Ellie Painter (Spouse Mike Haynes). Her siblings: David Reid Clark (Barbara), Howard Clark (Kay), Dennis Clark, Gregory Clark (Delisa), Denise Clark. She was also a beloved Aunt to: Logan, Rebekah, Jeremiah, Jordan, Meredith, Sarah, Morgan, Erika, Adrienne, Jason Clark & Emily and Blake Weber. She would be remiss if we did not mention her Grandbaby Dogs: Arrow, Alfie, Bodie, and Mabel. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Michael Clark. 

A Gathering of Family & Friends will be held from 10:00 a.m.-Noon, Saturday, August 3, 2024 at Marlene’s Home, 200 N H St, Monmouth, IL. This is a remembrance and walkthrough of her home she named “Jewel”, a visual spectacle, to admire her hard work and creative genius. Following the gathering, there will be a Celebration of Life with food from 12:30 - 3:30pm at The American Legion, 1110 N 11th St, Monmouth, IL. An Open Mic will be available 2:00 - 3:30pm, sharing of remembrances and memories are encouraged. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.