BENTON – Marsha Kay Kern, 86, of Benton, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Stonebridge Nursing and Rehab Center in Benton, surrounded by her family.
She was born on September 7, 1938, to Howard Rogers and Lucille (Glass) Smith in Benton, IL. For many years, Marsha was co-owner of the Benton Locker Plant. She later worked for McCollum Real Estate and Bank of America.
Kay was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Benton.
She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Rogers and wife, Margery Rogers; her mother, Lucille G. Smith and husband, Stephen “Smitty” Smith.
She was a loving mother and grandmother.
Kay is survived by her daughter, Kimberly “Kim” K. King and her husband Brian; her three granddaughters, Aisha (Nathan) Golliher, Kailee (Eric) McCollum and Taigan (Chase) McLaren; her six great-grandchildren, Carrigan Mitchell, Lily Bowlin, Jaycee McCollum, Hudson McCollum, Emma Lynn McLaren, and Drew Kendall McLaren; her brother, David (Vicki) Rogers; and her sister, Idalla (David) Smith; and several nieces and nephews and longtime friends.
Kay had a love for golf and enjoyed many memorable rounds on the course over the years. She also cherished playing cards with friends and found joy in visits to the casinos to play the poker machines. Even in her final months, her spirit remained strong. She was able to enjoy one last outing to play the machines, a moment filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.
Per Kay’s wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no services.
Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.
