Mardell Joyce Bucklin

Mardell Joyce Bucklin, age 87 of Peoria, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, February 7, 2026, around 5:25 pm at OSF HealthCare. She was born in Peoria on July 22, 1938, to Alvin and Laverne Demmin. She married Rox Bucklin on November 24, 1957, in Peoria.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother and sister-in-law, Gary (Linda) Demmin; and niece, Casey Demmin.

Mardell leaves behind her son Rick (Wendy) Bucklin of Bartonville, IL; son Brad (Kathy) Bucklin of Washington, IL; 4 grandchildren (Becky, Melissa, Daniel and Hailey); 2 great-grandchildren and a niece, Kristy Demmin of Reno, NV.

In her early years, Mardell worked as a telephone operator for Illinois Bell before she left to lovingly raise her family. She was a co-owner with Rox at Bucklin's Music where she worked for 13 years as a secretary. She also worked seasonally at Bergner's and served for many years as an election judge. She ended her working career at the Peoria Courthouse beginning in the Circuit Clerk's Office and ending as the Chief Deputy in the Auditor's Office.

Mardell loved her family, friends, traveling and sports (especially the Bradley Braves). She was a recreational historian of her hometown and was a frequent call-in guest to the Roger Monroe morning radio show. Mardell was a devoted mother and active in her community as a member of the Fernwood Fems, served as president of the Pleasant Valley PTA, participated in many school activities and ran the Rox's Organ Club. She also provided transportation to and from appointments for many of her friends and family. Mardell was a very caring and social person who leaves behind many cherished memories.

She attended Trinity Presbyterian Church in Bartonville.

Services will be at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria with Rev. Stephen Barch officiating. Visitation will be on Friday, February 20th at 10:00 a.m. followed by service at 11:00 a.m. Cremation will be accorded and inurnment will be held at Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, IL at a later date with a family graveside service. 

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude or Trinity Presbyterian Church.