Marcia passed on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at home. She was born to Samuel H. and Annabel Birdzell on June 20, 1943 in Carbondale, IL. 

Her parents and her brother, Jeffry, preceded her passing. Marcia graduated from East Highschool in Salt Lake City, Ut. but she

noted that her 3 years at Marion Highschool were some of the best years of her life. She attended Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Ut. and Parkland College in Champaign. Marcia married Peter L. McGow (Matton,IL.) Together, they had three children; Bryan (Betsy) McGow, Heather (Darrin) Hall and Meghan (Greg) McGow-Boysaw. They survive.

 She married the love of her life, William “Bill” Wilkinson in 1996. Together they traveled, went to casinos, fished, celebrated the St. Louis Cardinals, cheered on the Illini, and shared a love of all animals. Bill passed in 2009.

Marcia leaves seven grandchildren; Jennifer (Randal) Teal, Justin McGow, Jessica (Cade) Lundberg, Emma (Nate) Byam-Echols, Austin (Emilee) Echols, CJ Echols, and Rissa Echols. She leaves seven great granddaughters; Gianna “GiGi” Echols, Ory Byam-Echols, Kynzley Lundberg,

Presley Lundberg, Lily Teal, Sage Teal, and Ivory Teal. All survive. Marcia also leaves behind her devoted companion and favorite child, Wags, her puppy dog.

Besides spending time with her family and friends, she loved her Gypsy Vanner horses, St. Louis Cardinal baseball, talking about her grands and great grands, shopping, and brushing Rissa’s hair.

A memorial service will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society.