Jean E. Marsala, 68, of Rockford, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

Born and raised in the Rockford area, Jean was a lifelong member of the community she called home. She dedicated the majority of her career to the Rockford Public School District and retired from Guilford High School, where she worked as the attendance secretary. Jean was married to Randy J. Marsala for nearly 48 years. She passed away on September 8, just one day before their 48th wedding anniversary. She was a cherished mother to her daughter, Brittany, a caring mother-in-law to Daniel Olson, and a beloved Nana to her two grandchildren, Sam and Vivianna, who were truly the light of her life. She treasured time with them and loved watching them grow. Those who knew Jean will remember her for her contagious laugh, warm smile, genuine heart, and perfect spark of sass. She was always ready for a party. If there was music playing, good friends nearby, and a reason to celebrate, chances were Jean was right in the middle of it, making any gathering better simply because she was there. A lover of music, Jean enjoyed going to concerts and was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan. She was also an active member of St. Ambrosia Club and the Women’s Auxiliary, where she enjoyed participating in the club’s bocce leagues, playing in both the women’s league and the couples league alongside her husband.

She is survived by her husband, Randy Marsala; daughter, Brittany Olson, and son-in-law, Daniel Olson; grandchildren, Sam and Vivianna; siblings, Dan Conness, Don (Sarah) Conness, and Linda Conness; brother-in-law, Steve Peterson; sister-in-law, Linda Dennis; former sister-in-law, Sandy Conness; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oris and Carolyn Conness; father- and mother-in-law, Sam and Marie Marsala; siblings, Mary Blume, Kathy Peterson, and David Conness; and brother-in-law, Jim Dennis.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road in Rockford, IL. On Thursday, September 17, St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Avenue in Loves Park, will hold a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, to be designated to a charity of their choice at a later date.