Leah Elaine Heaton-Marquard, 64, of Jacksonville, IL, passed away at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

She was born January 4, 1960, in Jacksonville, the daughter of Dale and Barbara (Weder) Heaton. Leah married Chester Allen Marquard, and he survives.

She is also survived by her sons, Daniel Wayne (Brittany) Staake of Indiana and Justin Dale Staake; grandchildren, Madison, Emersyn, and Bransyn; siblings, Diana "Shorty" (Alex) Rothdeutsch of Murrayville and Gerry (Rachel) Heaton of Jacksonville; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Gale Heaton; and sister, Dawn Heaton.

Leah received her G.E.D. and went on to nursing school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked at Jacksonville Developmental Center until its closure in 2012, and then at Illinois School for the Visually Impaired. Leah loved horse riding and was a member of the Indian Creek Saddle Club. She also enjoyed gardening and sunbathing by the pool.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A visitation for Leah will be held from 4 – 6 PM Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Memorial donations are suggested to the Jacksonville Area Food Bank. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family with the arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.