Maureen “Marie” (Carney) Henson, 83, of Sterling, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, March 31, 2025.
Marie was born on August 23, 1941 in Sterling, to Elbert and Catherine (Milne) Carney. She graduated from Newman High School in 1959 and then graduated from AIC in Davenport, IA. Marie returned to Sterling and worked at the City Clerk’s Office. On November 24, 1962, Marie married John Henson in Sterling. They had two children, and she enjoyed being a stay-at-home Mom for several years. While at home, Marie and John opened their home to foster many children. When she returned to work, she was a Resource Coordinator for the Rockford Diocese, where she worked for 20 years. Marie enjoyed helping people with their taxes for the 40 years she was an IRS Tax Aide Volunteer at the Whiteside County Senior Center. She enjoyed traveling to Dubrovnik, Czechoslovakia, London, and on Viking Cruises. Marie was a fantastic cook and baker; she was known for her cakes, pies, and delicious dinners. She also loved playing Scrabble and completing Sudoku and Crossword puzzles on a daily basis. Marie enjoyed spending time with family and connecting with her friends. Most of all, she loved spending time with and enjoying activities with her children and grandchildren.
Marie is survived by her husband, John; daughter, Margo (Herman) Rodriquez of Elgin, IL; son, Andrew (Tracy) Henson of Morrison, IL; grandsons, Benjamin Rodriquez of Madison, WI, Alexander Rodriquez of Iowa City, IA; granddaughters Emily and Katherine Henson of Morrison.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Karen (James) Boesen; brother-in-law, Donald Henson.
Marie chose to have her body donated to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois for Science.
No services are planned at this time, but it was Marie’s wish that you do an act of kindness in her memory.
Arrangements were completed by the McDonald Funeral Homes.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Rock River Hospice & Home or the Whiteside Senior Center, both in Sterling, IL.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.