Marlee (Whitley/Hollins) Canada, lovingly known as "Honey," "Mommy," "Granny," "Gi-Gi," and "Mollee," was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of God who loved the Lord with all her heart, might, and soul. She transitioned peacefully at home, surrounded by love from her family, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, strength, creativity, and unwavering devotion to family.

Marlee was born on July 29, 1957, in Dermott, Arkansas, to the late Clara Hollins and Esley Whitley. She was the fifth of seven children and was raised with strong family values that she carried throughout her entire life. Marlee attended Freeport High School and later continued her education at Highland Community College.

Marlee worked for many years at Newell Rubbermaid, where she was blessed to retire at an early age. Yet even in retirement, her hands never stopped working & creating. She then began working in the health care field as a Direct Support Specialist with Addus Homecare until she became a full-time caregiver for her husband. Her true passion was sewing and designing. She owned and operated her business, "Last Minute Stitch," where her God-given talent flourished. Marlee had the extraordinary ability to sew beautiful garments, mostly designed by hand, creating her own patterns.

Marlee was also deeply passionate about gardening and canning food. She could spend countless hours outdoors tending to her garden with joy and peace. She was truly the Queen of DIY projects. She often said that God gave her the knowledge and ability to do these things, and she faithfully executed every task with confidence and skill. Her generosity knew no bounds. She was selfless and nurturing, always making sure her family never went without. Love was the foundation of everything she did.

Marlee was active in ministry throughout her life. Even while serving as the full-time caregiver for her beloved husband, she remained faithful to the work of the Lord and did all that she could in service to others. She faithfully attended St. James Christian Methodist Episcopal Church for many years until February 2026, when she united with Browns Temple II Church of God in Christ, where her son and daughter, Pastor Jon Walker and Lady Odessa Walker, serve in ministry.

On December 23, 1983, Marlee married the love of her life, James Marshall Canada Jr. Their union was one of enduring love, faith, commitment, and partnership. Though separated by 21 years in age, their marriage stood as a beautiful testimony of devotion and perseverance for 42 wonderful years.

Marlee leaves to cherish her precious memory: her loving daughter, Odessa (Jon) Walker of Freeport, Illinois; sons Wesley (Tammy) Canada of Florida, Debbie (Dwight) Carrington of Texas, and Brian (Rita) Canada of Rockford. She also leaves her beloved siblings: her one and only sister, Shirley (Michael) Hollins-Boggess; brothers Shutehu (Susan) Ra, Matthew Whitley, and Chester A. Hollins, all of Illinois; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, extended family, and dear friends.

A special and heartfelt acknowledgment is given to the grandchildren who lovingly cared for their Granny until the day she transitioned: Adryanna Pempilton, Ja'mil Brooks/Brown, Josiah Walker, Alyxzandrya (Myren) Jackson, and Armond (Megan) Hollins. Special recognition is also extended to her great-grandchildren who helped care for her with love and tenderness: Amena, Siehnna, and Autaya Plunkett; Robert Finn Jr.; Emmie Hollins; and Malichi and Maxwell Jackson.

She also leaves behind her beloved godchildren, Jasmine Lacy and Anthony Morris, who held a special place in her heart. Her last surviving aunt, Pathenia Williams, whom she loved dearly. Special friends who were like sisters to her include Sharon Nickson, Rosanne Kennedy, Mary Shipp, Annie Jones and Catherine Pegee. Their friendship, love, and bond meant so much to Marlee throughout her life.

Marlee was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Marshall Canada Jr.; her parents, Esley Whitley and Clara Hollins; her stepmother, Annie Whitley; her brothers, Walter Hollins and Willie Hollins; her son, Bradley Canada; and her niece, Kaisa Whitley.

Marlee Canada's life was one marked by faith, sacrifice, creativity, compassion, and unconditional love. Beautiful on the inside and outside. She leaves behind a legacy woven together by her gifted hands, her nurturing spirit, and her steadfast faith in God. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on Friday May 29, 2026, at 10:00 A.M., at Browns Temple II Church of God in Christ, 2806 W. State St. in Rockford, IL, 61102. Homegoing Celebration Service will follow at 11:00 A.M., also at Browns Temple II Church of God in Christ. Repast at St. Paul Church of God in Christ, 1001 Bishop Washington Ave. in Rockford, IL, 61102.

Internment at Freeport City Cemetery (PRIVATE) at a later date with family.