Celebrating the Life of
Marilyn A. Halliday
June 27, 1949 — May 10, 2026
Obituary
Marilyn A. Halliday
A Life Well Celebrated
Marilyn A. Halliday, a woman of remarkable intellect, passion, and spirit, passed away on May 10, 2026, in Buffalo Grove, Illinois at the age of 76. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, colleague, and friend whose life was a testament to the power of education, advocacy, and joyful living.
Born and raised in Beverly, on the Southside of Chicago, Marilyn’s journey began at Christ the King Grade School, where she graduated in 1963 and continued at the Academy of Our Lady (Longwood) where she graduated in 1967. Her love of learning took her to St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana, then to St. Xavier University in Chicago, and ultimately to the University of Chicago, where she earned a Ph.D. in Education — a crowning achievement that reflected her lifelong devotion to a life of learning.
Marilyn built a distinguished career in education that touched countless lives. She served as Assistant Superintendent in Schaumburg and taught at National Lewis University. Ever the innovator, she channeled her expertise in curriculum and staff development into her own independent consulting firm, Integrity Unlimited, Inc., through which she continued to shape educators and institutions alike.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marilyn was a woman who embraced life fully. She loved to travel, was deeply moved by art, and could often be found running — a fitting metaphor for a woman who never stood still. She had a well-known affection for her always-current-model Cadillac, proudly bearing the Illinois vanity plate MS PHD — a touch of wit that said everything about her. Her favorite color was purple, which graced the walls of her townhouse and added a signature flair to her world. A fierce and proud advocate for women’s rights, she threw herself into the political campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, putting action behind her convictions.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Raymond G. Halliday and Muriel R. Halliday (née McNalis), and her dear sister Nancy J. DiNaso (née Halliday), who passed away in 2015. She is survived by her siblings: Joy M. Runez (née Halliday) of Woodinville, WA; Raymond G. Halliday, Jr. of Skokie, IL; Sharon M. Halliday of Scottsdale, AZ; David A. Halliday of Sebastopol, CA; James R. Halliday of Brooklyn, NY; and Edward J. Halliday of Petaluma, CA.
She is also survived by twelve beloved nephews and nieces: James DiNaso of Charleston, IL; David DiNaso of Downers Grove, IL; Steven DiNaso of Charleston, IL; Lisa Halliday of Chicago, IL; Urik Halliday of Chicago, IL; Christopher DiNaso of Georgetown, TX; Paul Runez of Mesa, AZ; Peter Runez of Keene, NH; Patrick Runez of Woodinville, WA; Sean Dunstan Halliday of Brookline, MA; Arianne Dunstan Halliday of Pasadena, CA; and Michael Lee of Sneads Ferry, NC.
Marilyn will be deeply missed by her extended family, cherished friends, and the many colleagues whose lives she enriched.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Thursday, June 25th from 1-4pm at Lucky Monk located at 105 Hollywood Blvd. Barrington, IL 60010.
Services
Memorial Service (In-Person)
Thursday, June 25, 2026, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Central Time
Lucky Monk 105 Hollywood Blvd. Barrington, IL 60010
Memories and Condolences
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I was so deeply saddened to hear about Marilyn's passing. When we worked together, she was not only a wonderful boss but also a great friend. I was also blessed to have taken one of Marilyn's courses at National Louis University. Boy, did I learn a lot! She was an excellent professor! I will always remember squishing people in my car to go to lunch during the school day and meeting her for lunch on weekends or during the summer. My favorite memories were baking homemade apple pies together in her kitchen. While time and distance may have grown between us over the years, I have always looked back on that time and our friendship with so much fondness. Sending my heartfelt condolences to your family during this difficult time. She was one of a kind and will be missed.
I worked with Dr Halliday for several years at Hanover Highlands Elementary School. I frequently brought my wife Lora with me to Hanover, and one day Dr Halliday asked me what my secret was, because I fulfilled Lora's needs for so many years. I said it was no secret, but before I could say a word, she said she didn't want to hear that religion stuff, but I said it wasn't religion stuff, but it was because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. She listened, but only God can read hearts. Kathy and I share in the grief and deep loss or void this leaves for everyone. Henry and Kathy
Merciful and Loving Father, You know the anguish of separation and the pain of fractured relationships. You understand the complex grief we feel for our loved one who has passed away—a person we loved, even though there was distance and avoidance between us. Lord, I entrust Marylin Anne Halliday’s soul into Your gentle and eternal care. Forgive any misunderstandings, hurts, and the times we failed to respond in love. We ask for healing for our hearts, and for the hearts of all who mourn her passing. Help us to release our pain, forgive what was lacking, and remember the good You placed within her. May Your mercy bridge the distance that separated us on earth, and may she now find perfect peace and rest in Your Heavenly Kingdom. Unite us all one day in Your eternal love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen
To Jim and all the extended Halliday family sending you all my love and prayers. May Marilyn rest in peace thinking of you all Sean Darroch
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