Marilyn O. Harbison

Lyn was born October 26, 1924 in Denison,Iowa, the daughter of Barney and Emma Otto. Presceding her in death were her parents, a brother, Robert Otto and a sister, Bette Schuyler.

Lyn arrived in Springfield after pursuing a degree in Physical Education from the University of Iowa to serve as Physical Education Director for the Y.W.C.A. She married Shelby Harbison in Springfield on March 19, 1950.

Surviving are her husband, Shelby Thomas; a daughter, Becky Schultz(husband, Bruce) of Madison,Wisconsin; two sons, Shelby,Jr.(fiance, Lori Hudgins) and Peter(wife, Judy) of Springfield; five grandchildren, Angela, Jill, Lauren and Bennett Harbison all of Springfield and "Bubba" Schultz of Madison,Wisconsin.

Lyn had a gift of working with special needs people. She was a volunteer for the "Little Red Schoolhouse". She was a member of the Board of Directors of the Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries. Lyn was also a member of the Springfield Junior League, King's Daughters and Christ Episcopal Church, where she enjoyed volunteering at the Country Cupboard and the Food Pantry.

Traveling, Tennis, Bowling and walking in Washington Park were favorite activities. The failure of the "Cubs" never diminished her loyalty. Lyn was an excellent dancer to "Big Band" and jazz music.

A visitation service celebrating the life of Lyn Harbison will be held Sunday, January 25, 2009 at Boardman-Smith Funeral Chapel in Springfield from 2 to 5:00 p.m. A private family burial service will follow on Monday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Episcopal Church, 611 E. Jackson St. Springfield, IL. 62701 or to the Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries, PO Box 8528 Springfield, IL. 62791. Please visit the on-line obituary at www.boardman-smith.net.

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