Marilyn Lawler

Born on July 21, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Norbert and Dorothy (May) Budde, Marilyn grew up with a natural warmth and love of being with people that made everyone feel welcome and at ease. On May 24, 1969, she married Dennis Lawler in Dubuque. Their early years took them to Rome, NY, and Madison, WI, before they settled in Springfield in 1975.

Marilyn earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Clarke College in 1969 and her master’s degree from UIS in 1989. She devoted her career to education, teaching in the Williamsville-Sherman School District and later serving as principal at Waverly Elementary School for 12 years. Her leadership was marked not only by dedication, but by the way she welcomed every student, parent, and colleague with genuine interest and kindness.

Community and connection were central to Marilyn’s life. She was active in AAUW, PEO, SAGE at UIS, Springfield Symphony Guild, Sunnyside, Grateful Daughters, Junior League of Springfield, and Christ the King Parish. She also volunteered for many years at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and the Dana-Thomas House. In 2020, she received the University of Illinois Loyalty Award for Exceptional Service, a reflection of her lifelong commitment to serving others.

Marilyn loved people. She had a rare ability to talk with anyone — friend, neighbor, or complete stranger — and make them feel seen. Whether she was playing bridge, traveling, or simply “visiting,” she brought warmth, curiosity, and a smile to every conversation. She especially loved sharing stories about her beloved hometown of Dubuque, always with enthusiasm and pride.

She is survived by her husband Dennis, son Chris Lawler of Springfield, daughter Becky Gartner (Steve) of Maple Grove, MN, granddaughter Hannah Lawler, and grandchildren Peter, Josh, and Caroline Gartner and Sadie Lawler. Also surviving are her brother Norbert Budde (JoAnn) of Evanston, IL: sisters-in-law Linda Budde of Dubuque, IA and Margaret Manor of Platte City, MO; and many cousins and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Michael Budde, and brother-in-law Michael Manor.

The family wishes to extend their most sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff of the Concordia Memory Unit for their exceptional care.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering: The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Memorial Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Christ the King Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield, with Fr. Alex McCullough, celebrant.

Burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In honor of Marilyn, donations may be made in lieu of flowers to The Parent Place of Springfield, Illinois Symphony Orchestra, Concordia Village Scholarship Program, or Christ the King Church.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.