Marlys J. Smith, age 84, a resident of Carol Stream, IL, went to be with the Lord on December 12, 2024.  She was born on December 19, 1939 in Oak Park, Illinois.

Marlys graduated from Sienna High School in 1957 and Rosary College in 1961.  During her early years she was an editor for the high school newspaper and appeared in several church theater productions with the Divine Infant Variety Club in Westchester, Illinois.

Over the years Marlys worked for Leo Burnett Advertising, Compton Advertising and Campbell Mithun doing tv, radio and print copywriting in the early 60s.  In addition she went on to provide public relations and copywriting for Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans and an organization to restore the Wheaton Grand Theatre.

Marlys was very active in her community serving as a member of the Wheaton Junior Women's Club, the Wheaton Newcomers Club and the American Business Women's Association.  She served in various roles in the planning of many Fourth of July parades in Wheaton and Carol Stream.

Marlys was an avid book reader and that passion led her to pursue a position at the Carol Stream Library.  Her love for books was exceeded only by her love for cats.  Over the years, she cared for over 12 cats.

Marlys is survived by her sons, Jarrett Smith and Steven Smith; brothers Michael (Danise) Schukies, and Robert (Christine) Schukies; and niece Michaela Schukies.  She was preceded in death by her longtime companion, Robert Daleen, as well her parents, Vince Mix and Dorothy (Frank) Schukies.

A visitation will be held December 18, 2024 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm at Hultgren Funeral Home, Wheaton, Illinois.  A funeral service will be held December 19, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Michael Catholic Church.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the Animal Rescue Foundation, P.O. Box 4423, Wheaton, IL 60189.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com.  For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.