Marjorie Rae Sonquist

Age 80, of Wilmington, Illinois, formerly of Braidwood and Essex, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, November 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 20, 1946, in Keene, New Hampshire, Marjorie Rae was the daughter of Arnell “Al” and Pauline (Metcalf) Cheney. She was raised and educated in West Swanzey, New Hampshire. Beginning in 1963, Marjorie worked as a weaver in the woolen mill industry until 1978. After leaving the workforce, she devoted herself to what she cherished most: caring for her family and raising her children and grandchildren.

On June 16, 1993, Marjorie married Dennis Sonquist at the courthouse in Joliet, Illinois. Together, they shared many wonderful years before his passing on April 28, 2015.

Marjorie was a devoted member of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries and faithfully followed the SonLife Broadcasting Network. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially canning, gardening, and preparing delicious home-cooked meals for those she loved. She had a deep interest in herbalism and enjoyed sewing, always finding comfort and fulfillment in working with her hands. Marjorie and Dennis also shared the experience of owning and operating a local Christmas tree farm in Braidwood, creating special memories and bringing joy to families throughout the Christmas season.

Above all, Marjorie treasured her family and the time spent caring for those she loved. Her warmth, talents, and the love she poured into her home and family will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children: Renee (James) Naughton, of Wilmington, Richard Fontaine, of Newport, New Hampshire, Robin Nowman of Coal City, Illinois, Randy (Sherrie) Fontaine, of Dwight, Illinois, Caleb Hansen of Wilmington; stepson, James Sonquist as well as nine grandchildren, two step grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, two step great-grandchildren; brother, Arnell (Martha) Cheney, Jr., and one niece and two nephews.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Dennis, as well as her brother, Raymond Cheney and son-in-law, Timmy Nowman. 

Per the families wishes cremation rites are being accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

She will be laid to rest with her husband, Dennis at Wesley Cemetery in Wilmington.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Marjorie’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation and memorial services have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815/476-2181)