Kay Bilyew

Sharon Kay Bilyew, age 82, of Marion, Illinois, completed her journey on Earth on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at her home with her grand-daughter by her side. Kay left us peacefully and joins her youngest daughter, Deborah and all those who have gone before her.

Kay was born on February 19, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois the daughter of Clyde and Dessie (Hutchinson) Harms. Her parents were God’s greatest gift to her and her children. She attended Hutsonville High School. Kay made her home in Crawford County from age 2 to 72. The last 10 years she made her home with her daughter Cindy in Marion. With her health declining the past 3 years, Kay was cared for in the comfort of her home by her loving and caring daughter. Kay was blessed with many friends who maintained close bonds creating lifelong memories.

Kay was united in marriage August 26, 1955, with Ralph Bilyew. They were married 34 years and blessed with two daughters, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. All of whom she cherished and deeply loved.

Kay was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling and collecting antiques. She found joy being a wife, mother and grandmother. She made a happy and loving home for her family. She gave us guidance, wisdom, unconditional love, care and asked for nothing but love in return and we shall be forever grateful. She will always have a special place in our hearts and never be forgotten.

Survivors include her daughter, Cindy (Joe) Skoffic of Marion; five grandchildren, Melissa Kay, Kayla, Felecia, Kevin (Bonnie), and Melissa Lyn (Chad); eight great-grandchildren, Blake, Grant, Trevor, Balin, Braxtyn, Karsyn, Molly and Samantha; and son-in-law, Joe Franz.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Dessie Harms; her daughter, Deborah Franz; sister, Barbara (Harold) Montgomery; brother, Gene (Wilma) Harms and father of her children, Ralph Bilyew.

Funeral services will be held at Blue Funeral Home, Marion on Thursday, July 16, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Johnston City.

Visitation will be held at Blue Funeral Home, Marion on Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Due to health concerns related to the COVID-19 virus, those attending the service are asked to follow social distancing guidelines and the wearing of masks is encouraged.

For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made by purchasing a child a book, Finding Forever Animal Rescue, St. Francis Animal Shelter or American Cancer Society and will be accepted at the funeral home.