It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Marianne
Holtsclaw, who departed this world peacefully in her sleep at Burlington Hospital on
June 18, 2026, at the age of 87. Marianne, daughter of the late Harold and Margaret
(Wollbrink) Brackensick, was born on August 28, 1938, in Sutter, IL.
Marianne was the loving wife of the late Geral Dee Holtsclaw, whom she married on
June 11, 1955, in Tioga, IL. Their union was a testament to enduring love and
partnership, and together, they built a family and a life rich with laughter and cherished
memories.
Marianne’s family was the cornerstone of her existence. She was a devoted mother and
is survived by her daughters, Sharon Newman, Gerolyn (Larry) Mack, Taresa (Shawn)
Ryan, and Sheila Handyside. Her nurturing spirit and unconditional love were felt deeply
by her children, and she instilled in them the values of compassion and integrity.
Though Marianne faced the heartache of losing her beloved husband, Geral, her son,
Michael Ray in infancy, and son in laws, Claude “Butch” Watkins, Carl Newman, and
Thomas Handyside, her resilience and strength inspired all who knew her. She was
predeceased by her parents, her sister, Marilyn Schmitt, and brother-in-law, Wayne
Schmitt, as well as her sister-in-law, Carol Brackensick.
Marianne is survived by her siblings, Phyllis (Wayne) Pence, Kathryn (Will) Bavery, and
Richard Brackensick. Her legacy of love and family extends to her grandchildren; Andy
(Verna) Watkins, Bob (Lindsay) Watkins, Shawn (Stephanie) Watkins, Tasha Scheetz,
Trevor (Caitlyn) Scheetz, Gavin Handyside, Alexis (Luke) Kelly, Kailyn (Brian Joy)
Handyside, Candice (Paul) Chapman, and Carl Newman II. She was also blessed with
27 great grandchildren, and 7 great great grandchildren, who brought immense joy and
pride into her life.
Marianne was an active member of the Basco community. She had a passion for
sewing and baking, hobbies that she lovingly shared with her family. Especially her
homemade rolls. Her holiday dinners were legendary, a time when her home overflowed
with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her lovingly prepared meals.
A service to celebrate Marianne’s life will be held at 1pm on June 27, 2026, at South
Basco Cemetery in Basco, IL. As we gather to honor her memory, we will remember her

as a beacon of love and strength, a woman whose legacy will forever live on in the
hearts of those she touched.
Marianne Holtsclaw’s life was woven with love, resilience, and devotion. As we bid
farewell, we celebrate a life well lived and a woman deeply cherished by all who were
fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit will forever guide and inspire her family and
friends, reminding us that love is eternal.